Xenia effect enhance pod and seed quality in Gleditsia sinensis

Abstract

Gleditsia sinensis is a tree species with high economic value, but the pairing of male and female trees is often overlooked in its cultivation practices. The fruit quality of G. sinensis under natural pollination tends to be inconsistent, resulting in lower economic value. Therefore, understanding the xenia effects of G. sinensis on fruit and seed quality is crucial for improving their overall quality. In this study, The G. sinensis as the female parent and Gleditsia japonica var. delavayi, Gleditsia japonica, G. sinensis, and Gleditsia fera as male parents for hybridization. By observing and comparing the inflorescence characteristics of different male parents, as well as the fruit set rates, pod phenotypes, and seed yield under various pollination combinations, we found that artificial pollination significantly increased the yield of pods and seeds, and distinct xenia effects were observed in the fruits and seeds of G. sinensis. Through comprehensive evaluation, G. fera was identified as the optimal pollen source for interspecific hybridization with G. sinensis, significantly increasing fruit set rate, saponin content, and seed yield. Pollination with G. japonica resulted in a higher seed abortion rate and poorer seed quality, but significantly increased the amino acid and starch content in the pods. G. delavayi pollen is more inclined to produce high-quality seeds. These findings provide valuable insights for the selection of G. sinensis pollinating trees and the improvement of G. sinensis fruit quality.

Data availability

All data generated in this study are presented within the manuscript. Further information and requests could be directed to the lead contact, Prof. Yang Zhao ([email protected])