Genetic resources of cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera ehrh.)

Abstract

Investigations were carried out on 63 cherry plum genotypes collected from different autochthonous populations in Serbia. Morphological and biochemical variability of these genotypes was analyzed by multivariate analysis (cluster analysis and discriminant linear analysis). Cluster analysis showed clear differences between cherry plum genotypes and four distinct clusters were identified. Discriminant linear analysis used ripening time to create timed preliminary groups. Most genotypes of the first (82%) and the third (71%) group from the results of discriminant analysis were correctly classified but fewer of the second group (45%). Four fruit characters, ripening time, length, stone weight and total acid content, are sufficient to explain the diversity between the starting groups and to provide a good classification. Multivariate analysis is a useful system for germplasm evaluation in cherry plum allowing a detail characterization of seedlings in terms of adaptation and productivity. The presence of diversity within the germplasm collection is of great interest in providing valuable materials for breeding aimed at cherry plum improvement for different environments.