1Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Regional Station, Mukteshwar 263 138, Nainital (Uttaranchal)
2Division of Germplasm Evaluation, NBPGR, New Delhi 110 012
*Corresponding author's present address: Central Institute of Sub-tropical Horticulture, Lucknow 227 107, E-mail: gpandey@cish.ernet.in
Survey was conducted in Uttaranchal to find out the existing variability amongst the naturalized walnut seedling trees and to identify the superior genotypes with better in-shell nut weight and good shelling percentage. A total of 103 genotypes were collected and evaluated for important nut and kernel characteristic. Based on preliminary evaluation approximately 15 genotypes were identified and compared with exotic and indigenous varieties as promising genotypes. These genotypes were having better inshell nut weight and corresponding kernel recovery. Highest kernel oil was recorded in GP/ANT-133 (78.06%) followed by GP/ANT-128 and GP/ANT-156. Similarly, highest kernel protein was recorded in GP/ANT-61 followed by GP/ANT-55. These collections are mostly thin-shelled, elliptic, round, ovate, short trapezoid to long trapezoid in shape with smooth light to medium amber colour nut along with excellent shelling quality. The kernel colour varied from light to light amber coupled with delicious sweet taste.
Juglans regia, kernel, genotypes, oil content, protein
