Conservation challenges and opportunities for native apple (Malus) species in Canada

Abstract

Societal Impact Statement: Apple, one of the world's most widely cultivated and economically important fruit crops, has two wild relatives native to Canada. In this review, we describe the importance of these native apple species to Indigenous heritage and the current threats the species faces due to pests, diseases, and habitat loss. We examine current conservation in natural habitats, botanical gardens, and genebanks, describing policies and practices that can protect these plants. We also investigate the use of native apples in education, research, and outreach. Our review highlights the need for coordinated policies that engage multiple disciplines and the public to ensure the survival of native apple species in Canada, thereby supporting ecosystem health and enhancing community connections for future generations. Summary: The conservation of native apple species (genus: Malus) related to the domesticated apple (Malus domestica) supports food security, biodiversity, Indigenous heritage, and plant breeding resilience amidst climate change and habitat loss. This work focuses on the ecological and cultural significance of two native apples in Canada: Malus coronaria (sweet crabapple) and Malus fusca (Pacific crabapple). We highlight the long-standing biocultural importance and stewardship of M. fusca as food and medicine by Indigenous Peoples throughout the Pacific Northwest. To assess conservation priorities, we examine current threats, including habitat loss, climate change, pests, and pathogens. We identify M. coronaria as a species of particular concern due to its restricted range, small population size, and projected vulnerability to climate shifts. While more abundant in Canada, M. fusca has unique challenges and opportunities due to its historical and contemporary biocultural importance to Indigenous Peoples. We review the potential of legislation to protect culturally significant M. fusca orchards and forest gardens in British Columbia. Beyond challenges, this article examines the opportunities for collaborative conservation strategies, involving Indigenous communities, botanical gardens, genebanks, policymakers, researchers, the arts-humanities, educators, and the public, for conserving native Malus species in a changing climate. We propose 22 calls to action for native Malus conservation that will require Indigenous leadership, dedicated funding, research initiatives, public engagement, education, outreach, and government support.