Agromorphological characterization of Neltuma spp. accessions from the INIA germplasm bank, Peru

Chumbimune-Vivanco S.Y.; Chapoñan-Vásquez M.; Mendez-Farroñan S.; Rojas-Llamo D.; Lindo-Seminario D.E. · Bioagro (2026) · DOI: 10.51372/bioagro383.2

Resumen

The carob tree (Neltuma spp.) is a key component of Peru's dry forests, recognized for its ecological, economic, and environmental benefits. However, it faces significant threats, and its identification is complex due to the morphological similarity among species within the genus. Twenty-six accessions of Neltuma spp. were phenotypically characterized to generate baseline information to support genetic studies and conservation strategies, evaluating 52 descriptors (30 quantitative and 22 qualitative) over three years at the EEA Vista Florida-INIA Germplasm Bank (Lambayeque). Mixed-data factor analysis (MFDA) explained 39.9% of the total variance, highlighting the contribution of leaf and fruit traits. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between vegetative variables (diameter, height, and canopy) and between leaf and reproductive traits. Cluster analysis identified three groups, with N. alba var. panta distinguished by its greater pod length, seed size, and vegetative vigor. Widespread morphological variability in Neltuma spp. was confirmed, providing a foundation for future studies on conservation, characterization, and eventual selection.