Morphological and biochemical evaluation of selected almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A.Webb] genotypes in northern Serbia

Abstract

In order to determine the overall degree of polymorphism and detect similarities among genotypes, 19 almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A.Webb] genotypes were studied. Variation in traits related to phenology, morphology, and fruit quality was observed, and the results indicated a high morphological diversity of almond genotypes. The majority of important correlations were determined among the traits representing nut size (nut width, nut length, nut thickness, and nut weight) and leaf size (leaf length, leaf width, and leaf area). The lack of correlation between kernel size and chemical compounds enables the creation of a new almond cultivar with large kernels and improved quality. Principal component analysis showed considerable phenotypic diversity among the almond genotypes. Parameters with high discriminating values were those related to nut, kernel, and leaf size; ripening time; and tree habit. Genotypes B/04, 1/03, and 28/03 were singled out as the most promising for breeding and commercial growing.