Genotype and Phenotype Diversity in Malus Domestica Borkh Species – Perusha Variety

Abstract

The study was conducted in the period 2020–2022, in the conditions of the Central Balkan Mountain region (600 to 1200 m above sea level), around the town of Troyan and its adjacent villages and hamlets. Some old local apple forms of Perusha variety were discovered and marked, which are threatened with extinction. The genetic diversity of the local specimens of Perusha variety type was evaluated, and the pomological and reproductive properties of some forms were characterized, to select potential cultivars for further cultivation or selection. It was found that all forms have a green fruit skin color, and the fruit flesh in most cases is juicy, slightly sour, with aroma. All the studied forms of the group have different valuable economic qualities and different directions of use; therefore, it can be confidently stated that there is a perspective for their introduction into practice, in creating new orchards for sustainable fruit production.