Genetic and phenotypic variability of cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera Ehrh) pomological characteristics

Abstract

Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera Ehrh) is one of the most widely spread fruit species in our country. The fruits are mostly used for brandy production and the seed is used for rootstock production in fruit culture. As cherry plum is resistant to plant diseases and pests, chemical protection is not required. Concerning that, cherry plum is reach and cheap source for the production of healthy food. The objective of this research was the analysis of genetic and phenotypic variability, as well as study on correlation of pomological traits of 49 cherry plum genotypes selected from the native population in Serbia. It was measured mat the highest genetic variance in total phenotypic variance was for the fruit height and total sugar content. The lowest genetic variance in total phenotypic variance was for the length of the stalk and dry matter content. The highest genetic variance coefficient (CVg = 22.93%) was calculated for the total acid content although the lowest value of genetic and phenotypic variance was for the fruit width (CVg = 0.69%; CVf = 0.80%). The highest coefficient of phenotypic and genetic correlation was calculated between the weight and height of the fruit. Native population of cherry plum in Serbia and Montenegro is specific because of the extensive variability of the forms which is highly important for the selection of raw material in breeding process.