Intraspecific Variations in Fruiting Phenology of African Pear (Dacryodes Edulis (G.DON) HJ LAM) under Mangrove and Rainforest Zone, Nigeria

Abstract

A three year survey was carried out in five states of mangrove and rainforest zone of Nigeria to evaluate the intraspecific variation in African pear fruiting phenology. In each of the state, three locations were selected and ten African pear trees fruiting for the past 10 years were marked and tagged given a total of 150 trees. Each tree was divided into four compartments for data collection. Randomized complete block design was used. Parameters collected include: time of anthesis to fruit formation, number of fruits per inflorescence, fruit weight and fruiting habits from 2013 - 2015. Additionally, temperature and rainfall data were also collected. The collected data were analyzed using analysis of variance, regression and correlation, standard errors and percentages were calculated where appropriate. Results showed that there were significantly (p < 0.05) differences in all the parameters measured within and between the locations. Mean duration of anthesis to fruit formation ranged from 26-40 days with a tree mean of 1.00 - 5.00 depending on year and location. The highest mean number of fruits per inflorescence at maturity ranged from 1.78 - 2.23, while the mean fruit weight ranged from 23.78g - 28.89g. African pear fruiting habit can be seen as annual since 57% -77% of the trees are annuals, while 23% - 43% were biennials and triennials. Peak fruiting of African pear was mostly February ending to march at the temperature range of 280C - 300C with little or no rainfall. Species variations that of genetic and horticultural interest exists in African pear. Therefore a planned selection and improvement program should be carried out for African pear.