The North-Eastern hills region of India is considered as one of the natural home of many citrus species. Availability of favourable climatic conditions and easy hybridization among different species and genera has resulted in numerous wild/semi-wild forms in North-eastern states of India. Surveys were conducted in Khasi, Jaintia and Garo hills of Meghalaya to collect citrus germplasm from these regions including those from citrus gene sanctuary. A total of 79 accessions belonging to 15 Citrus species and 3 new types (probably hybrids) were collected. Five endangered citrus species, namely, C. indica, C. latipes, C. macroptera, C. assamensis, and C. megaloxycarpa were also collected. The collected materials were regenerated at NRCC, Nagpur and NBPGR, Regional Station, Umiam, Meghalaya and maintained under good conditions. The materials will be planted in field gene bank for evaluation and utilization.
Citrus, Exploration, Germplasm, Meghalaya
