Multivariate assessment of morpho-biochemical and bioactive diversity in Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels for the selection of superior genotype and breeding applications

BACKGROUND JAMUN: [Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels] is an underutilized fruit crop in India, despite having numerous medicinal and nutritional benefits. Although the Indian subcontinent harbours a vast natural population of Jamun, limited knowledge exists regarding superior genotypes. This study evaluates the diversity among Jamun genotypes using morpho-biochemical and bioactive traits to facilitate superior genotype selection and commercial breeding applications. RESULTS: Twenty-seven characteristics were studied to identify superior genotypes from a seedling-origin Jamun population. Significant variation was recorded in fruit and seed-related traits. The pulp-to-seed ratio exhibited the highest variation. Predominant fruit shape was oblong, with variation in fruit stalk end, fruit color and pulp color. Biochemical traits, such as TSS, TSS: acid ratio, total sugar and non-reducing sugars, showed significant variability. Similarly, substantial variation was observed in bioactive traits, including ascorbic acid, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. Genotypes PCJ-9 and PCJ-17 exhibited higher fruit weight, pulp weight, pulp content, pulp-to-seed ratio, TSS, vitamin-C, with lower phenolic content and medium values of total flavonoid and antioxidant activity. Six genotypes (PCJ-15, PCJ-30, PCJ-22, PCJ-3, PCJ-1 and PCJ-16) showed high TPC, TFC, antioxidant and seed content, making them suitable for breeding bioactive-rich cultivars and functional food development. Pearson correlation analysis evaluated a significant positive correlation between fruit weight and pulp weight, fruit size and fruit width. PCA analysis identified PC1 and PC2 as the most important components. Heatmap clustering analysis emphasized the relationship between fruit morph-biochemical and bioactive characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: The presented study offers a novel and comprehensive assessment of diversity among seedling-origin Jamun genotypes based on morpho-biochemical and bioactive traits. The identified superior genotypes present promising candidates for cultivar development and direct cultivation, contributing to improved Jamun productivity and functional food value.