Pomological and biochemical analysis of some almond genotypes naturally growing in yozgat province

This study aimed to characterize naturally grown almond genotypes in the Yozgat province, Turkey, with the goal of identifying potential candidates for breeding programs. Pomological characteristics, oil content, and fatty acid profiles were analyzed. Gas chromatography (GC) with a flame ionization detector (FID) was employed for fatty acid profiling. Heatmap and PCA analyses were conducted to to explore patterns of variation and relationships among the different almond genotypes based on studied traits. Observations revealed significant variations among genotypes concerning characteristics like adherence of green husk, shell and kernel color, and shape. Despite these differences, all genotypes uniformly exhibited the desirable trait of being hairless. Pomological measurements showed significant differences among genotypes, particularly in almond weight with hulls, hard shell weight, and kernel sizes. Genotype 4 exhibited the highest total oil content, whereas genotype 9 had the lowest. Oleic acid dominated in fatty acid profiles, with genotype 4 having the highest concentration and genotype 3 the lowest. Genotypic diversity in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was evident, with genotype 3 displaying the highest PUFA content and genotype 4 the lowest. In conclusion, despite holding a medium position in fruit weight, genotype 4 stood out with the highest oil content and oleic acid concentration among the genotypes studied. The observed phenotypic and genetic diversity among naturally growing almond genotypes in Yozgat highlights the importance of this study for upcoming breeding programs. The identified genotypes stand as valuable genetic reservoirs, offering breeders an opportunity to develop novel almond varieties characterized by heightened adaptability to extreme weather conditions. This exploration of variability among genotypes provides crucial insights for the advancement of almond cultivation and genetic improvement programs.