Dynamics and composition of anthocyanin complexes in feijoa plants

The dynamics and composition of anthocyanins in varietal samples of Feijoa sellowiana under fi eld conditions was assessed. Such studies are relevant from the standpoints of directed selection and varietal identifi cation. Our aim was to determine the impact of weather conditions and varietal characteristics on anthocyanin accumulation in feijoa plants with a particular focus of the dynamics of anthocyanin accumulation during the year. This knowledge forms the basis for determining the eff ect of anthocyanins on crop stability and identifying promising varieties for directed breeding for fruits with an improved biochemical composition. Studies were conducted monthly for two years (2022–2023) in the humid subtropics of Russia (Sochi) using F. sellowiana samples selected by the FRC SSC RAS, including the Dagomysskaya, September, Dachnaya, and ShV-07 varieties from the Genetic Collection of the Subtropical Research Center (FRC SSC RAS) cultivated under experimental fi eld conditions (Krasnodar region, Sochi). The Superba regional variety was used as a control. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of anthocyanins in feijoa leaves and fruits was conducted. According to the data obtained, feijoa plants demonstrate a large yearly variability in the content of anthocyanins in leaves. During the year, both the total amount of anthocyanins and the ratio of individual anthocyanin components undergo signifi cant chang es. The highest anthocyanin levels in leaves coincides with the fruiting period; however, the correlation between these indicators is average. Dachnaya and Dagomysskaya show the highest level of anthocyanins in both leaves and fruits, out performing not only the Superba control variety, but also other varieties in this indicator. Our data indicate signifi cant dif ferences in the content of anthocyanins between diff erent F. sellowiana varieties. Their highest amount is observed during the fruiting period, which lasts from September to November, depending on the feijoa variety. At this stage of research, no correlation between anthocyanin contents and hydrothermal factors was observed. As a result, varieties (Dachnaya and Dagomysskaya) with the highest anthocyanin level are established, suggesting their greater resistance to biological stress ors. These varieties are promising for directed breeding of plants with increased contents of biologically active substances.