Genius - Genomic Enhancement and Novel Implementation for Underrepresented nut Species

The GENIUS project aims to revolutionise breeding strategies for perennial nut crops by establishing Europe's first integrated predictive breeding ecosystem. Focusing on six key species—walnut, chestnut, hazelnut, almond, pistachio, and stone pine—the project tackles major challenges such as long breeding cycles, fragmented data, and rising climate pressures. GENIUS combines plant genetic resources, multi-environment phenotyping, advanced genomics, and predictive modelling to enable earlier, faster, and more precise selection of climate-resilient, high-performing varieties. By organising germplasm collections across Europe, deploying high-throughput phenotyping systems, and developing genomic resources alongside genotype × environment-aware predictive models and biotechnological protocols, the project will produce robust, interoperable datasets and tools tailored for breeders. These innovations will be operationalised through the DIGINUT Digital Breeder Toolbox, an intuitive platform integrating genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data to support decision-making. The toolbox will be co-designed and validated with breeders and stakeholders in real-world conditions, ensuring its usability, scalability, and adoption across Europe. By accelerating breeding cycles and enhancing selection efficiency, GENIUS will foster the development of resilient, resource-efficient nut crop varieties adapted to various European environments. This approach will support stable yields, minimise input use, and promote ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration, creating impact across sectors.