Exploration of Genetic Diversity Among Wild Kiwifruit (Actinidia Callosa Var. Strigillosa C. F. Liang) Accessions in North Sikkim, India

This research analyzes 81 distinct female accessions of wild kiwifruit (Actinidia callosa var. strigillosa C. F. Liang) in North Sikkim, India, from 2021 to 2023, aiming to explore genetic relationships and identify key traits influencing yield efficiency per vine to enhance genetic strategies for cultivation. Significant variability was observed in traits viz. fruit size, ascorbic acid, total phenols, and leaf area. Hierarchical clustering analysis categorized the accessions into two main clusters [Cluster I with 76 accessions and Cluster II with 5 superior accessions (grouped together based on highest fruit size)]. Traits like yield efficiency, fruit yield, trunk girth, stem thickness, total phenols, ascorbic acid content, leaf area, and fruit weight exhibited higher genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (>30%). A high heritability was recorded for yield efficiency (96.13%) and fruit yield (90.77%); highest genetic advance was observed for fruit size (149.89) with yield efficiency exhibiting the highest genetic gain (460.41%). It is noteworthy that, leaf area (r = 0.26) and fruit stalk length (r = 0.22) showed positive and significant associations with yield efficiency, highlighting their potential as key selection indices. Path analysis (using genotypic correlation) along with stepwise regression revealed direct positive effects on yield efficiency was exhibited by fruit width and fruit length-to-width ratio. Factor analysis determined four hidden factors, which justified 99.81% of variation. This is the first systematic-assessment of genetic diversity in wild kiwifruit accessions, revealing critical genetic parameters for yield improvement through future breeding and selection programs.