SEGREGATION OF APRICOT ACCESSIONS ON THE BASIS OF FRUIT QUALITY ATTRIBUTES

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to characterize the European apricot germplasm that was collected in Cacak and Smederevo region, Central Serbia. Fifteen physical, chemical and sensorial traits were investigated in this germplasm consisting 14 accessions during a two year period. High variations were recorded in fruit weight, soluble solids content, ripening index, index of sweetness and total mineral mater, whereas variations in stone weight, titratable acidity and total sugars were smaller. Most of the accessions had large fruits with weight ≥60 g; two accessions had a fruit weight ≥80 g. Generally, fruits had a good aroma, firm flesh, orange and yellow flesh and skin color, respectively, and sweet kernel taste. High correlations were found between some evaluated properties. The accessions were grouped into four clusters according to their potential. Using a principal component analysis, accessions were segregated into groups with similar physical, chemical and sensorial properties. These relationships may help in selection of a set of accessions with better fruit quality performances