The Mortiño (Vaccinium foribundum Kunth): a review of its suitability as a promissory crop in the Ecuadorian Paramo and its potential uses, environmental role, and health benefts

Abstract

The mortiño (Vaccinium foribundum Kunth), belonging to the Ericaceae family, is a native species of the Ecuadorian paramos. It has a shrub-like habit and produces edible fruits. In the Neotropics, it is primarily found in the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador, thriving in humid environments up to an elevation of 3700 m above sea level. In this review, a selection of studies was carried out that evaluated the taxonomy, reproduction biology, and nutraceutical, environmental properties, and industrial use of the mortiño (V. foribundum). The data gathered from various bioassays were essential in determining the appropriate techniques for tissue diferentiation and assessing the quality of resulting plants. This work aims to generate a deep knowledge of the cultivation of mortiño, as well as the properties of its fruits and the benefts they provide for health. These are rich in compounds with antioxidant activity, so the consumption of V. foribundum fruits is related to health benefts. Besides, the environmental role of V. foribundum and its applications in various industries, especially in the development of nanoparticles contributes to the valorization of this plant. Overall, this research contributes to establishing sustainable methods for the propagation of Vaccinium foribundum, ensuring its successful cultivation and utilization for both commercial purposes and ecological preservation.