PREDICTIONS FOR LOQUAT IMPROVEMENT IN THE NEXT DECADE

Predictions and expectations for the improvement of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) in the next decade are based on extrapolation from current research in loquat as well as progress made in other members of the Rosaceae. Research underway in China indicates the development of seedless loquat will be the next great advance in loquat commercialization.
Selection within seedless triploids that occur from rare spontaneous occurrence in diploid open pollinated seed derived from non-reduction in megaspores can be expected to achieve diversity in size, color, season of ripening, and adaptability.
Within triploids, parthenocarpy will be the next trait that needs to be addressed in order to eliminate the need for pollination or gibberellin application.
The production of seedless triploids from tetraploid × diploid crosses needs to be explored.
Selection of rootstocks from Eriobotrya species with high compatibility indicate that progress in loquat production can be achieved from rootstock selection and breeding.
Progress in genomic analysis of loquat will initiate the next great advance in loquat breeding for both scion and rootstock improvement.

III International Symposium on Loquat

J. Janick

Eriobotrya japonica, breeding, genomic analysis, rootstocks, seedless loquat

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2011.887.1