Characterization of Morphological and Fruit Quality Traits of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Germplasm

Abstract

The evaluation and identification of germplasm resources is an indispensable step in the breeding processes and have important roles in the selection and improvement of new varieties. This research intended to characterize coconut germplasm to determine the quantitative, qualitative, and morphological traits of the stem, leaf, and inflorescence and the fruit characteristics. Sixteen morphological and qualitative traits of 17 coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) germplasm resources from Hainan, China, were investigated to determine the characteristics and advantages of multiple germplasm lines to create the foundation for the cultivation and breeding of coconuts. The results of the correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis indicate a correlation between coconut germplasm factors and their contribution to coconut traits. The results revealed that stem girth at 0.2 m was the most obvious trait, along with the fruit flavor, edible rate, fat content, hole spacing, single fruit weight, and number of female flowers, which reflect most of the information regarding coconut traits and contribute to its value. The PCA and cluster analysis indicated that two high-yield and superior-quality sweet water dwarf coconut germplasms, named ‘15-19’ and ‘15-17’, were suitable for cultivation and production in Hainan, China. The results of this study act a far-reaching influence on the collection and utilization of coconut resources and have an impact on the development and progress of the coconut industry in China.