Variability studies in bael (Aegle marmelos) genotypes under semi-arid conditions

Abstract

A survey of bael genotypes was conducted in the districts of Ajmer, Churu, Jaipur,  and Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan during 2021-22 and 2022-23.The collected genotypes  exhibited significant variability in fruit morphology and physico-chemical  characteristics. The number of fruits per tree ranged from 65 to 188, with fruit yield  per tree varying between 22.79 kg and 535.76 kg. Fruit weight ranged from 0.33 kg to  2.85 kg across the genotypes. The important fruit traits, such as fruit length, ranged  from 9.05 cm to 18.45 cm, shell weight per fruit varied from 115.25 g to 374.74 g,  shell thickness ranged from 0.16 cm to 0.32 cm, and seed weight per fruit ranged  from 0.15 g to 0.32 g. The total soluble solids (TSS) ranged from 29.15 to 39.46 °Brix  among the genotypes analyzed. Based on the overall assessment, the genotype SKN 15 was identified as the most promising. Indian bael (Aegle marmelos L. Correa) is one of the most  ancient and common fruit indigenous to India. It belongs  to family Rutaceae. It grows throughout subtropical and  arid region and is a popular crop involving lower input with  higher economic return even in the most fragile eco systems.  The importance of bael fruits lies in its curative, pesticidal  and nutritive properties. Ripe fruits are laxative and unripe  fruits are prescribed for treatment of diarrhea and dysentery  and have a great demand in Ayurvedic system of medicine.  Every part of the plant such as fruit, seed, bark, leaf and root  are important ingredients of several traditional formulations.  Apart from medicinal value, it acts as a sink for chemical  pollutants as it absorbs poisonous gases from atmosphere