Biochemical and morphological characteristics of avocado genotypes in Kerala

M Geethu; Saji Gomez

doi:10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.67

M Geethu Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala, India-680656.
Saji Gomez Central laboratory of Organic Agriculture, Agriculture Research Center, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.67

Keywords: Avocado, Persea americana Mill., genotypes, fruits, characterization, biochemical, morphological, oleic acid, fat.

Abstract

Presently, in India, avocado cultivation is limited and scattered in southern and north eastern region of India. Many avocado genotypes are available in Kerala, which vary widely in terms of biochemical and morphological attributes. In the present study, 27 accessions (Acc.) were collected from different parts of Kerala, including high-altitude areas and plains. Wide variability in biochemical and morphological traits was observed among accessions collected from different locations. Acc. 11 had the highest vitamin C and Acc. 15 had highest protein content. The highest fat content was recorded in Acc. 7, while the highest oleic acid was recorded in Acc. 10. Acc. 25 reported the highest flavonoid and calcium content. Genotypes collected from Wayanad recorded comparatively higher values for vitamin C, phenols, potassium and crude fibre content. Protein, total fat and calcium contents were comparatively higher in genotypes collected from Idukki. Accessions 7, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15 and 25 could be selected for future conservation, popularization and commercial cultivation based on their biochemical and morphological quality attributes.