*Corresponding author: gurteg-hort@pau.edu
Genetic diversity analysis of fifteen mandarin genotypes collected from various agro-ecological regions was performed using important fruit morphological and physicochemical traits. Fruit weight varied from 245.50 g (Kara) to 90.53 g (Michal). The values of fruit diameter and length varied in the range of 82.70 to 62.37 mm and 74.20 to 52.80 mm, respectively. Kara genotype recorded significantly higher fruit diameter and length (82.70 mm, 74.20 mm), however, Michal recorded the lowest fruit diameter and length (82.70 mm, 74.20 mm) among all genotypes. Fruit rind thickness was recorded in the range of 5.88 mm (King) to 2.64 mm (Fortune). The fruit mesocarp thickness varied from 2.85 mm (King) to 1.11 mm (Mandarin 182). The total seed number per fruit varied from 31.20 (Fortune) to 3.30 (PAU Kinnow 1). Significantly higher fruit granulation was recorded in Michal (83.30%) followed by Clementine (50.00%) and Fairchild (33.33%) and Honey (15.00%). However, no granulation was observed in Kinnow, PAU Kinnow 1, King, Kara, Willow Leaf, Wilking, Sunburst, Mandarin 182 and Fortune. The TSS and acidity ratio ranged from 17.29 (Clementine) to 5.65 (Fortune). However, juice content in endocarp varied from 54.17 per cent (Fortune) to 19.63 per cent (Michal). Kara, Fairchild, PAU Kinnow 1 and King emerged as promising cultivars in terms of Citrus Colour Index values of epicarp, pulp and juice. The cluster analysis illustrating genetic relationship, classified mandarin genotypes into three clusters irrespective of their geographical origin. Higher genetic advance value for fruit weight, fruit granulation and juice content made these traits more effective during selection. The study indicated high genetic diversity in mandarin germplasm. So, superior cultivars can be utilized in citrus crop improvement programme.
Diversity, Genotype, Mandarin, Morphological characters
