Morphological characterization and sexual compatibility of five pitahayas (Hylocereus undatus) genotypes

Abstract

In Mexico and other countries, cultivation of pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) is considered very promising because its fruit is well accepted and it is resistant to drought. However, new plantations in Mexico have several problems, including genetic heterogeneity of plantation material and low fruit production relative to total flower production of some genotypes. Knowing biodiversity of a plant resource allows election of strategies for better use. This motivated the study of five genotypes (1, 3, 4, 5 and 6) cultivated in southern Quintana Roo, Mexico, to characterize their morphology and evaluate their sexual compatibility. The morphological characterization was determined with quantitative variables (length and diameter) of flower, fruit, stem, seed and pollen, as well as with color of the pericarp (qualitative variable). Sexual compatibility was evaluated with self-pollination. The genotypes were differentiated mainly by the characteristics of their reproductive structures. Based on an analysis of variance, clusters and principal components, it was determined that genotypes 1, 3 and 6 have similar characteristics in their reproductive structures, while genotypes 4 and 5 have more differences. Genotypes I and 5 were self-compatible and have more productive potential for the region because of the characteristics of their fruits.