Metabolomic Characterization and Utilization Assessment of Kumquat Germplasms

Kumquat (Fortunella), as a fruit with both medicinal and edible properties, contains various bioactive components and possesses multiple functional activities. In this study, 13 kumquat germplasms were used as experimental materials, and untargeted metabolomics and flavonoid-targeted metabolomics were employed to investigate the metabolic basis and differences underlying fruit quality variations among different kumquat germplasms. The results revealed significant metabolic differences between F. crassifolia and other germplasms: compared with F. crassifolia, F. hindsii exhibited higher Salicin content and was rich in flavonoids; F. obovata showed significant differences in the nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolic pathways; and the Cuipi germplasm had lower organic acid content. These results indicate that Cuipi is most suitable for fresh consumption, F. crassifolia is suitable for both fresh consumption and medicinal use, F. hindsii has great potential for the medicinal development of Salicin and flavonoids, and the other germplasms are suitable for processing, medicinal use, or ornamental purposes.