'Andelija' - a new red-skinned cultivar of European pear (Pyrus communis L.) released by the Fruit Research Institute, Cacak

Abstract

Fruit skin colour in pears, which has become variable due to natural hybridization and positive selection, has received particular attention in new breeding programmes worldwide. Specifically, pear cultivars with a red blushed or completely red fruit skin are required. This paper presents the results of a two-year study focused on the phenological properties (flowering and ripening time), pomological (morphometric, chemical and organoleptic) characteristics and productivity of the newly released pear cultivar 'Andelija'. This dark red skinned pear cultivar is originated from the crossing combination 'Starkrimson' x 'Colouree de Juillet', and was bred at the Fruit Research Institute, Cacak. A standard cultivar used in this study was 'Starkrimson'. Regarding the beginning of flowering time, both cultivars were medium. The ripening time of 'Andelija' was mid-August, averagely five days before 'Starkrimson'. Compared to the standard, 'Andelija' had significantly higher average values for yield (5.90 kg tree(-1)), soluble solids (13.78%), total sugar (8.89%) and inverted sugar (7.90%). In contrast, significantly lower values for mean fruit weight (146.84 g), fruit height (78.32 mm), fruit width (56.52 mm), total acids (0.13%) and sucrose content (0.94%) were found in 'Andelija'. Based on the overall evaluation of organoleptic traits, 'Andelija' exhibited better fruit attractiveness and aroma. Owing to the high quality, attractiveness, excellent taste and exceptional aroma of the fruit, 'Andelija' is recommended for commercial production as a dessert cultivar, and can expand the list of cultivars which have the potential to be used as parents in pear breeding programmes.