Characterization of jamun ( Syzygium cumini Skeels) accessions for economic traits based on multivariate analysis

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Abstract Jamun, recognized for its substantial medicinal importance, stands as an underutilized minor fruit crop in India. Our study delved into the morphological variability of 21 distinct jamun genotypes sourced from Bangalore Rural, Shivamogga, and Chikmagaluru districts in Karnataka. Planted at the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research in Bengaluru, these genotypes underwent scrutiny for 19 quantitative and 15 qualitative characteristics. Notable variations emerged, particularly in the seed-to-pulp ratio, pulp weight, and fruit weight, emphasizing significant distinctions among the genotypes. Conversely, traits like leaf width, petiole length, leaf length, and pulp percentage showed minimal variation.The study highlighted the pivotal attribute of pulp percentage, ranging from 44.8% to 100%, with seedless varieties, specifically J13, J14, and J16, exhibiting the highest pulp percentage, and J18 the lowest. Additionally, the entire fruit weight, encompassing both pulp and seed, varied widely from 0.74 g (J14) to 15.41 g (J4). Correlations unveiled positive relationships between pulp weight and attributes like leaf length, tree spread, and seed width, while a negative correlation was observed with total soluble solids. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering (Hclust) revealed substantial diversity among the genotypes, with the first five components contributing to 97.45% of the total variation. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the significant qualitative and quantitative variability among jamun genotypes, presenting promising prospects for selecting parental material in future breeding programmes. This diversity holds the potential for cultivating enhanced jamun varieties, further contributing to the improvement of this underexplored fruit crop. Significance of the study What is already known on this subject? Jamun ( Syzygium cumini ) is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, including anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Despite its medicinal value, it remains an underutilized minor fruit crop, especially within India, where its cultivation is limited and its genetic diversity is often overlooked. Previous studies have identified certain morphological traits and basic biochemical properties of jamun, but there is limited research on the extensive morphological and genetic variability among jamun genotypes across different regions. This gap hinders the selection of superior genotypes for enhanced fruit production and quality improvement in breeding programmes. What are the new findings? This study represents a comprehensive assessment of 21 jamun genotypes from distinct locations within Karnataka, India, analysing an extensive array of quantitative and qualitative traits. The findings reveal substantial variability across key characteristics, such as seed-to-pulp ratio, pulp weight, and fruit weight, which are crucial for evaluating the market and nutritional potential of the fruit. Notably, genotypes like J13, J14, and J16 exhibited seedless or nearly seedless traits, offering higher pulp percentages, which enhances the consumer appeal and potential applications in processed forms. Additionally, correlations observed between pulp weight and various vegetative and reproductive traits, alongside the diversity revealed by PCA and Hclust, provide valuable insights into genotype performance and suitability for specific horticultural traits. What are the expected impacts on horticulture? The findings of this study underscore the genetic potential within jamun, offering breeders a range of desirable traits for developing improved cultivars. The identification of high-pulp, seedless genotypes is particularly significant for commercial applications, as these traits can increase yield per fruit and reduce processing costs for value-added products. The variability observed among the genotypes can support targeted breeding efforts for enhanced fruit quality, resilience, and adaptability, ultimately benefiting both growers and consumers. By showcasing the diversity and potential of jamun, this study also encourages the inclusion of this underutilized crop in breeding and cultivation programmes globally, supporting biodiversity, crop resilience, and diversification in horticulture.