Genetic diversity in Jujube germplasm (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) based on morphological and pomological traits in Isfahan province, Iran

Abstract

<strong>Identifying and selecting superior genotypes in native germplasm is one method for breeding fruit trees. Five different ecotypes of Jujube (<em>Ziziphus jujuba</em> Mill.) were collected from different regions of Isfahan province, Iran, for evaluation of their morphological and pomological traits during 2011-13. Results showed that quantitative traits were more significant within ecotypes. ‘‘Najafabad' ecotype had the highest dimensions of leaves (48×28 mm), fruit weight (2.1 g), and stone weight (0.35g). The largest fruit width (17mm) and peduncle length (13mm) was observed in ‘Ardestan' ecotype, whereas the largest fruit length (22mm) was observed in ‘Dehaghan' ecotype. According to the results, the smallest size and weight of fruit, stone weight, and the longest and highest number of annual thorns in shoots were measured in ‘Kouhpayeh' ecotype. Results showed significant negative and positive correlations between some traits. According to the cluster analysis, ecotypes with desirable traits of fruit were placed in separate clusters from other ecotypes. ‘Najafabad' ecotype, followed by ‘Ardestan' and ‘Dehaghan' ecotypes, can be recommended as promising ecotypes for establishing Jujube orchards and use in Jujube breeding programs in Iran.</strong>