https://jopr.mpob.gov.my Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:38:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://jopr.mpob.gov.my/genetic-variability-of-cameroon-and-angola-oil-palm-germplasm-for-tropical-breeding-programme/ Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:38:40 +0000 https://jopr.mpob.gov.my/?p=15523 Breeding populations of restricted origin (BPRO), such as Deli dura, have been widely utilised in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) breeding programmes and seed production since the early 20th century. However, there is growing interest in leveraging genetic diversity from introduced germplasm to develop new varieties. Indonesia introduced 230 oil palm accessions from Cameroon (CMR) and Angola (AGO) in 2008 and 2010, respectively. These accessions, collected from diverse ecological zones, were planted in multiple locations in Indonesia. This study aimed to evaluate the phenotypic diversity of this germplasm, focusing on bunch components, oil quality and vegetative morphology. Results revealed moderate to high levels of diversity in both germplasm sets. The CMR exhibited shorter palms and rachises, as well as a higher shell to fruit and fruit to bunch ratio. In contrast, the AGO showed a higher oleic acid and lower palmitic acid, indicating favourable oil quality traits. Additionally, the AGO exhibited the most favourable values for oil yield, mesocarp to fruit and fruit weight. Both sets of germplasm showed high levels of carotene and unsaturated fatty acids. These findings highlight the potential of germplasm for enriching genetic diversity in the oil palm breeding programmes.

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