Evaluation of genetic diversity of pecan nut [Carya illinoensis (Wang) K. Koch.] in Jammu region

Abstract

Pecan is one of the most important deciduous horticultural nut crops and valued for its high calorific value. It is superior to walnut in quality (flavour, 65-70% fats, 8-10% proteins, high in phosphorous, potassium and vitamins A, C, E and B complex) and thrives best in the area experiencing somewhat warmer climate. The present study was carried out during 2015-17 in pecan nut growing areas of Jammu division to assess the extent of genetic divergence and select the superior genotypes of seedling origin pecan nut. Nut weight, kernel weight, nut length, nut width (lateral), nut width (ventral) and shell thickness varied from 3.56-8.63 g, 2.06-6.95 g, 20.03-52.40 mm, 15.50-28.40 mm, 15.54-33.40 mm and 0.30-1.89 mm, respectively. Five out of 60 genotypes were selected on the basis of higher and desired nut and kernel characteristics, which can be further used for trait-specific breeding programmes.