Morphological Characterization and Evaluation of Indigenous Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) Genotypes from Mohla Manpur Ambagarh Chowki District of Chhattisgarh

Abstract

Aims: To document morphological diversity and identify promising indigenous custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) genotypes for germplasm conservation and future breeding programmes. Study Design: Randomised Block Design (RBD) involving 31 custard apple genotypes, including one check variety (Balanagar), with four replications. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in farmers’ fields in the Mohla Manpur Ambagarh Chowki district of Chhattisgarh during 2024–25 and 2025–26. Methodology: Thirty-one custard apple genotypes, including the check variety Balanagar, were characterised using National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources descriptors. Qualitative traits related to plant growth habit, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds were recorded and evaluated. Results: Considerable morphological variation was observed among the evaluated genotypes. A semi-spreading growth habit (51.61%) was slightly more frequent than a spreading growth habit (48.39%). Oblong and oblong elliptic leaf shapes (32.26% each), an acute leaf apex (77.42%), an obtuse leaf base (61.29%), and green leaf colour (100%) predominated. Most genotypes exhibited a medium flowering duration (35.48%), late-season flowering (51.61%), green petiole colour (87.10%), and medium flower size (54.84%). Globose and cordate fruit shapes (29.03% each), greenish-yellow fruit colour (77.42%), white pulp colour (51.61%), soft pulp texture (83.87%), and black seed colour (48.39%) were the predominant qualitative traits, indicating substantial morphological diversity. Conclusion: The study revealed considerable morphological diversity among indigenous custard apple genotypes, highlighting their potential for germplasm conservation, the identification of superior genotypes, and future breeding programmes.