Morphological and Proximate Characteristics of Tree, Nut and Kernel of Almond Genotypes Grown Under Subtropical Conditions
摘要
Almonds (Prunus amygdalus) are believed to have originated in Central Asia. They are the second-largest nut after the peanut and an important horticultural fruit crop grown mainly in temperate regions of the world. Balochistan is the leading almond–producing region in Pakistan. This study was carried out to determine the morphological, quantitative, proximate, and organoleptic attributes of nine almond genotypes in the agro-climatic conditions of the Loralai district in Balochistan. Almond genotypes were evaluated for variability in tree, nut, and kernel traits to identify those promising for local adaption. Morphological characters related to tree, nut, and kernel along with qualitative traits were assessed in situ. The results showed significant variation among genotypes in tree growth habit, foliage density, leaf shape, and the timing of flowering and fruit set. Nut and kernel traits, including size, shape, shell hardness, suture opening, and kernel shriveling, also exhibited wide diversity. Overall, variability exceeded 40%, with the first two components of correspondence analysis explaining 61.9% of the variation. Quantitative analysis showed significant variability in nut and kernel dimensions, with ‘Bitter Katai-III’ and ‘Black Mongphali’ excelling in size traits. Proximate composition revealed wide nutritional diversity, with ‘Black Mongphali’ rich in fat and ‘Bitter Katai-III’ higher in fiber and protein. Sensory evaluation highlighted ‘American’, ‘Black Mongphali’, and ‘Spin Paiwand’ for superior appeal. Overall, ‘Bitter Katai-II’, ‘Black Mongphali’, and ‘American’ demonstrated strong quantitative, qualitative, and sensory traits, confirming their value for breeding, cultivation, and commercialization.