PRELIMINARY WALNUT (JUGLANS REGIA L.) BIOTYPES INVESTIGATIONS FROM MOLDOVAN NATURAL POPULATIONS

Our studies were focused on evaluation of perspective local walnut biotypes, selected from different natural populations of local pomological zones (North, North-West, Central and partially South) comparatively to autochthonous and some introduced registered for multiplication in the Republic of Moldova varieties. Biotypes of north zone were recorded to have the whitest shell color and high index of kernel/endocarp relation: 45-59% of kernel were noticed at 13 biotypes. Most of the biotypes had a moderate kernel fill and shriveling score. The highest score of aroma, flavor and sweetness intensity was noted in central pomological zone (1 Cmd, 2 Cmd, 3 Cmd, 17 Cmd). In general bitterness, puckeriness and sweetness assessments greatly changing among local varieties and biotypes. Crispness rating of the ?iotypes was almost the same in all zones. Thus, on the basis of obtained data we suppose the existence of genetically important walnut (Juglans regia L.) resources within Moldovan investigated area.