Statistical analysis of biometric indicator values for the fruit of certain indigenous peach genotypes

Peaches are prized both for their organoleptic qualities and for their high nutritional value. Traditional methods of assessing fruit quality, such as manually checking firmness by pressing, are subjective and destructive, as they can affect the integrity of the fruit and, consequently, its commercial value. Compared with these conventional methods, non-destructive assessment technologies offer a rapid, accurate and non-invasive alternative for determining the internal and external characteristics of peaches. The implementation of these technologies helps to improve the grading and quality control process, reduces labour requirements and minimises mechanical damage to the fruit during inspection. In this context, indigenous peach genotypes, which are adapted to the soil and climate conditions in Romania, represent a valuable genetic resource for the study of natural resistance to diseases and abiotic stress factors. The evaluation of these genotypes enables the identification of traits of interest for programmes aimed at the improvement and conservation of genetic resources. In this study, a group of indigenous peach varieties was analysed in terms of the main biometric characteristics of the fruit. The genotypes that performed best were utilised in genetic improvement programmes, particularly to develop varieties with increased resistance to Plum pox virus (PPV).