Evaluation of fruit physical and biochemical characteristics in local mango germplasm from semi-arid region of Maharashtra

This study examined the physical and biochemical traits of local mango (Mangifera indica L.) germplasms collected from the semi-arid agro-climatic zones of Maharashtra. Fruits of ten local germplasms were collected in summer-2023 to assess variations in fruit weight, dimensions, pulp, peel, and stone percentage. Significant genotypic variations were observed with respect to the observed fruit physical and biochemical quality traits. Cultivar Kesar exhibited the highest fruit weight (288.3 g), fruit size, and pulp percentage (71.7%) while Nashik-1 exhibited lowest fruit weight and, dimensions and pulp percentage. Musti-5 had the highest pulp percentage (78.7%) and the lowest peel thickness (1.04 mm). Khireshwar-1 and Nashik-1 had significantly higher stone percentages (>44.00%). Musti-7 had the lowest peel percentage, making these germplasms ideal for fresh consumption. Darshnal-1 plants had the lowest stone-to-fruit weight ratio. Among pulp biochemical parameters, Papri-1 exhibited the highest TSS levels (23.7oB), but Kesar had highest total sugars (14.81%) and lowest acidity (0.14%), indicating potential for processing and fresh market suitability. The fruit pulp of the local mango germplasm is highly acidic and fibrous, indicating its suitability for pickling. These findings underscore the influence of genetic factors on fruit morphology and quality, identifying specific germplasms as valuable genetic resources for breeding high-quality market-oriented mango cultivars.