Multivariate analysis of morpho-chemical characteristics in loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) genotypes

Loquat ( Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) is an underutilized subtropical fruit crop with considerable horticultural and nutritional importance. Türkiye, particularly Hatay Province, harbors a rich pool of naturally occurring loquat genotypes that have not been adequately characterized. In the present study, 80 loquat genotypes collected from Hatay Province were evaluated over two consecutive growing seasons using 51 morphological, biochemical, and sensory traits to assess their diversity and breeding potential. Substantial variation was observed among the evaluated genotypes, demonstrating a broad phenotypic base within the regional germplasm. Multivariate analyses revealed important associations among fruit quality, yield, and sensory traits and enabled the classification of genotypes into distinct groups. Several genotypes exhibited outstanding performance for key horticultural attributes, including ‘L43’ for fruit weight, ‘L67’ for fruit cluster productivity, ‘L54’ for total soluble solids content, ‘L4’ for sugar–acid balance, and ‘L14’ for pH. Principal component and cluster analyses further confirmed the extensive morpho-chemical diversity present within the studied population and facilitated the identification of promising breeding materials. Overall, the results highlight the considerable genetic potential of local loquat germplasm in Hatay and emphasize its value for germplasm conservation, cultivar development, and future breeding programs. The integrated use of multivariate statistical approaches was effective for the characterization and selection of superior loquat genotypes.