IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION OF ZIZIPHUS GERMPLASM FROM SOUTH OF IRAN

Abstract

Ber (Ziziphus spp.) is the hardiest cultivated fruit tree grown in most of the hot drier parts of many countries for its fresh fruits. Its deep taproot system enables it to survive long periods without water, even when the surface soil completely dries out. Ber trees can grow under conditions of extreme stress from drought, salt and waterlogging and can therefore be grown on degraded or marginal lands. It produces a nutritious fruit, which is rich in the B group of vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin and niacin), vitamin C and β-carotene. Ber can provide sustained production irrespective of occurrence of drought. A number of products are produced for industry from the ber tree. There are different wild Ziziphus species and types distribute all over the southern parts of Iran, and they show a great adaptability to the dry climate conditions of the arid and semi-arid regions. The identification and evaluation of over 2500 ber trees in Khouzestan province was initiated in 2000. Twenty-nine trees have been identified as superior types. Wide variability in tree performance, yield, fruit fresh weight (2.4-19 g), fruit dry weight (0.85-4.7 g), fruit shape, fruit length (10-48 mm), fruit diameter (12-27.5 mm), fruit volume(2.2-20.2 cc), peel colour, presence or absence of seed and seed weight (0-1.3 g) were observed among the genotypes. The growth and maturity (early February-April) of fruits also showed variations among the genotypes.