Research topics

Understanding the genetic and ecophysiological bases underlying the accumulation of specialized metabolites is essential for improving the quality of intensive crops such as carrot.

Relevant genetic resources in breeding programs or crop management are a major challenge for the sustainability of the sectors and an asset for our research programs.

Plant resistance relies on both constitutive and induced mechanisms. In carrot, resistance is associated with the constitutive accumulation of specialized metabolites, notably flavonoids and terpenes (Koutouan et al., 2018; 2023; Ramaroson et al., 2025), but it can also be induced by certain plant defense stimulators (PDS) (Le Clerc et al., 2025).

The BRC vegetable Apiaceae maintains collections of carrot (Daucus carota L.) and tuberous chervil (Chaerophyllum bulbosum L.), which include scientific resources, mainly generated during research programs and so-called heritage resources managed mainly in relation with the national network of Carrot and other Daucus genetic resources.