Variations in African Pear (Dacryodes Edulis (G. DON) H.J. LAM) Flowering Phenology in Mangrove Zone of Nigeria

Abstract

Field phenology study was conducted in three locations in each of two states (Rivers and Delta State), in Mangrove zone of Nigeria where the trees exist during 2013 to 2015 to determine the flowering phenology of African pear (Dacyrodes edulis (G.Don) H. J. Lam)). Various cutigens of the species were used. 60 trees with180 flowered branches were sampled. Data collected include time for flowering, days of inflorescence flower bud formation to anthesis, days from anthesis to fruit formation, inflorescence length, number of flower in an inflorescence and number of inflorescence in a panicle. Data collected were subjected to analyses. Standard errors and percentages were calculated where appropriate. The obtained result showed that time of flowering varied. Strong positive relationship exist between inflorescence length and flower per inflorescence. No ssignificant (P<0.05) difference were observed in mean flower per inflorescence and mean inflorescence per panicle in Rivers and Delta States for the three years. Approximately one quarter of the trees flowered by December in Delta State for the three years, while flowering started by January in Rivers State for the three years. Peak flowering was January in both States. The variations that exist in African pear flowering time are more of genetic and less environmental.Therefore the survey study suggested that variations of genetic and horticultural interest exists in African pear (D. edulis) floweringand that the initiation of a planned phrenological program for selection and improvement of African pear for optimal fruit yield is necessary.