Characterization of agromorphological, primary and secondary biochemical properties of blackberry genetic resources grown in Bolu province

This study, the agromorphological, physicochemical characteristics, as well as primary and secondary metabolite contents of blackberry genotypes grown in Bolu province were comprehensively investigated, and differences among genotypes were identified. Based on the two-year average data obtained in the study, fruit weights of genotypes ranged from 2.42 g (14BL06) to 0.51 g (14ME78). Soluble solids content (SSC) values varied between 16.33% (14MU57) and 8.30% (14BL15). While the presence of spines was observed in all genotypes, the quantity of spines varied among genotypes. Among the examined blackberry genotypes, 14GY88, 14ME71, and 14ME77 genotypes were identified as promising in terms of phenolic compound contents. These genotypes were particularly rich in catechin, gallic acid, and rutin content. Regarding the distribution of organic acid levels, 14ME77 stood out in citric and succinic acid content, 14BL46 in malic acid content, and 14GY88 in oxalic acid content. Additionally, 14GY102 and 14MU59 genotypes were prominent in fumaric acid and vitamin C content, respectively. Genotypes with high antioxidant capacities were identified as 14BL16, 14ME77, 14BL04, and 14GY91. The highest total phenolic and total anthocyanin content of blackberry genotypes were determined in 14BL42, while the total antioxidant capacity was determined in 14BL16, and the total monomeric anthocyanin content was determined in 14BL04 genotypes. This research identified 14BL06, 14GY88, 14ME71, 14ME77, 14BL46, 14GY102, 14MU59, 14BL16, 14ME77, and 14BL04 genotypes as prominent in terms of phenolic compounds, organic acids, antioxidant capacity, and agromorphological characteristics. The identified promising genotypes will serve as an important reference for future breeding programs. Additionally, it is recommended to conduct more in-depth research on the preservation of existing genetic resources, the introduction of new materials, and properties such as phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. This study makes a significant contribution to the genetic diversity and biochemical characteristics of blackberry genotypes grown in Bolu province, paving the way for effective studies in blackberry cultivation and genetic improvement.