Nucellar selection and citrus biodiversity

Abstract

One of the well-known methods of selection - nucellar selection is characterized in the paper. This measure used to increase biodiversity is discussed in the analysis of practical results. Is explained the essence typical for citrus one of the forms of apomixis   - nucellar polyembryony, when one or several additional germs develop from the somatic cells of the nucellus.       

The opinion of the authoritative representatives of science is brought to the effect that nucellar selection creates the basis for the emergence of diversity of forms in the citrus nucellar generation, with the aim of creating new varieties with economic properties. Along with the variety of forms, they are characterized by better economic values compared to the original.

Literary materials and practice confirm the fact that the nucellar generation is represented by a great variety of forms that differ from the mother plant and carry valuable economic characteristics.

Almost all citrologists, regardless of their different opinions and views, believe that from nucellar seedlings (which were used as starting material for selection) we can get new citrus varieties with good fruit quality.

In his own observations, while studying the  diversity of forms, it was determined that nucellar seedlings are of one origin, characterized by a great variety of biomorphological signs. Among them, we could not determine the presence of forms similar to the mother plant.

Practical results prove that the nucellar generation is represented by a great diversity of forms and differs from the mother plant. They carry valuable economic signs, which must be taken into account when selecting these crops.