Wild Pepper Capsicum annuum L. var. glabriusculum: Taxonomy, Plant Morphology, Distribution, Genetic Diversity, Genome Sequencing, and Phytochemical Compounds

The fruit of the chiltepin [Capsicum annuum L. var. glabriusculum (Dunal) Heiser and Pickersgill] is considered an important genetic resource for pepper crop improvement. The chiltepin is distributed from Colombia, Central America, and Mexico to the southwestern United States. The present review provides a synopsis of the taxonomic classification of the genus Capsicum and the chiltepin and studies were conducted to explore the current genetic diversity of this resource and the urgent necessity for conservation programs. Additionally, brief information regarding the recent sequencing of the chiltepin genome is provided, which contributes important data that could assist in its genetic improvement and conservation. Furthermore, this review discusses the phytochemical compounds of the chiltepin. The revised information shows that the chiltepin is an important genetic resource for pepper crop improvement and a primary source of phytochemical compounds.