Apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.) of trans-Himalayan Ladakh: Potential candidate for fruit quality breeding programs

Sixty-five apricot genotypes of trans-Himalayan Ladakh region were studied for phenological and pomological characteristics. Late and extended flowering and fruit maturity was observed in the genotypes. The genotypes attain fruit maturity between August and early September. Total soluble solids (TSS) ranged from 11.0-37.9 degrees Brix. To the best of our knowledge 37.9 degrees Brix is the highest value reported till date in fresh apricots. The mean Brix:acid ratio was 31.1 +/- 17.7. Genotypes with white seed coat are unique to Ladakh, and are associated with sweet kernel, brightly coloured fruit with high TSS. The unique characteristics and variations observed in apricots of Ladakh region, such as late and extended flowering and fruit maturity, high TSS content, white seed coat phenotype, and brightly coloured fruit offer opportunity for exploring the native genotypes for fruit quality improvement programs worldwide. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.