Evaluation of ber genotypes grown under semi-arid condition

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted for evaluation of Indian jujube genotypes, wherein a total of 25 ber genotypes were evaluated for both qualitative and quantitative traits. Out of studied genotypes, Narendra Ber Sel.1 (31.14 g) proved superior in terms of fruit weight also having the maximum stone weight (1.84 g). The longest fruit (44.06 mm) and stone (30.28 mm) was reported in Chuhhara, while highest fruit width was noticed in Bhadurgarhia (34.86 mm). The genotype Illaichi had the smallest fruit weight and size. The pulp/ stone ratio was highest in Bhadurgarhia (17.61) genotype. The germplam also differed significantly for various biochemical characters such as pulp total soluble solids (TSS), pulp acidity and ascorbic acid. The highest pulp TSS was recorded Illaichi (22.13°B), whereas it was minimum in Hsaianaul (12.68°B). The lowest pulp acidity was recorded in Katha Bombay (0.26%). Genotype Kathaphal tended to show the highest ascorbic acid content (84.32 mg 100 g-1 fruit weight), while it was lowest in Katha Bombay (65.57 mg 100 g-1 fruit weight). The study shows the potential for utilization of these genotypes in commercial production, and various crop improvement programmes.