CHARACTERIZATION OF PEQUI FRUITS (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) FROM BRAZILIAN CERRADO

The objectives of the present study were to characterize pequi fruits from Cerrado and to indicate some strategies of investigation, conservation and utilization of their genetic variability. Fruits were collected during two consecutive crop seasons (2007/2008 and 2008/2009) in eight Cerrado regions. Their physical characteristics were evaluated, and data were submitted to descriptive analysis, analysis of variance and simple correlations between characteristics. The results showed high phenotypic variability for most fruit characters in all sampled regions. Considering that some of this variability is heritable, there is a potential genetic gain by selection. The correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations among important traits for pequi breeding. A large difference among regions was observed about their potential to supply attractive fruits to the consumer market.