Evolution of Apricot Fruit Quality Attributes in the Released Cultivars over the Last 50 Years

Among fruit species, apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is characterized by a large phenotypic diversity due to its geographical origins and phylogenetic structures. At the same time, apricot production is deeply evolving under the pressure of breeding programmes. A recent increase of new registered cultivars has raised a strong interest in apricot, especially in Europe. Currently, modifications on fruit quality attributes have been observed. To estimate its incidence, 237 cultivars registered between 1950 and 2006 were analysed. Representative fruit samples collected at the maturity stage in collection orchards were observed from 2003 to 2007. Harvest period and fruit quality attributes have been characterized: fruit weight, fruit firmness, ground and blush colours, soluble solids content and titratable acidity. The incidence of genetic and geographic origins on fruit quality attributes were evaluated according to the registration period. France and the United States were the most important cultivar providers in the registration process. An enlargement of the genetic basis of the breeding stocks was observed with the use of new parents such as 'Goldrich' and 'Orangered'. An extension of the harvest season has been recently observed. Significant increases in fruit weight and blush colour can be explained by the use of new parents; while no significant variations on fruit firmness, soluble solids content and titratable acidity were observed due to the enlargement of the variability in the last registered cultivars.