Variation of some Diospyros genotypes in Iran based on pomological characteristics

Purpose: Gaining knowledge about the genetic diversity is essential in terms of plant breeding and germplasm conservation. In this study, the genetic diversity of some persimmons was evaluated using pomological traits. Research method: ۲۸ genotypes belonging to D. lotus and D. kaki species were evaluated from different regions of Iran. Nineteen fruit and seed traits were recorded for ۱۵ fruits per genotype. Findings: Pomological characteristics showed high variations among the studied genotypes. Generally, the coefficient of variation in seed traits was higher than that in fruit traits. All of the D. lotus and some D. kaki genotypes were seeded, while the rest of D. kaki genotypes were seedless. Fruit weight ranged from ۴.۴۵–۲۵۱.۷۷g, and the most fruit weight was recorded in KBM۱ genotype, also the biggest seeds and the most fruit length was detected in this genotype. The results indicated that a significant and positive correlation there was between fruit weight and length with seed dimensions. Various fruit shape was detected among the genotypes, but most of them were round-shaped. The genotypes ranged from strongly-astringent to completely non-astringent types. Cluster and principle component analysis showed that all the genotypes can be divided into three main groups, and some of the groups can be divided into distinct sub-groups. In PCA, first two components explained about ۶۰.۹۷% of total achieved variability. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: This study indicated that Diospyros germplasm resources in Iran are of noticeable diversities and can be promising for the utilization in the breeding programs.