Variability studies and fruit characteristics of <i>Dacryodes edulis</i> (G. Don) H.J. Lam) in Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

In a survey conducted in Imo, Delta, Enugu, Abia and Rivers States within the rain forest belt of South-eastern Nigeria, fruits of Dacryodes eduli were grouped according to their sizes and fruit colour. The relationshipd between fruit colour and fat, protein, sodium, calcium and potassium contents in fruit pulp were examined. There were no significant differences in chemical composition of the fruit pulp. Midnight blue fruits appeared to have highest quantity of protein and mineral elements while purple coloured fruits had the greatest quantity of fat. The least amounts of protein and fat were contained in pink coloured fruits. However, morphological characteristics such as fruit weight and length varied significantly within and between states. The importance of the morphological and biochemical characteristics is addressed.

Keywords: variability, fruit characteristics, Dacryodes edulis

International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Vol. 6 2005: 6-11