Exploration and identification of LAI DURIAN, New Highly Economic Potential Cultivars Derived from Natural Crossing between Durio zibethinus and Durio kutejensis in East Kalimantan.

Abstract

Most of genetic resources and species diversity of Durio spp was reported existing in Kalimantan Island. Due to the open pollinated characteristic, the genetic diversity of Durio spp is enlarging and spreading significantly. The most popular of edible Durio species in East Kalimantan is Durio zibethinus (Durian, Local Name) and Durio kutejensis (Lai, Local Name). Here, we report our exploration and identification of Lai Durian, a putative new variety derived from natural crossing between Durio zibethinus and Durio kutejensis in East Kalimantan showing high performance of fruit characters and economic potential cultivars. Our findings showed that Lai Durian is existing in 6 districts of East Kalimantan, i.e. Samarinda, Kutai Barat, Kutai Kartanegara, Penajam Paser Utara, Bulungan, and Nunukan. Based on plant morphology, fruit performance, and nutritional value analysis, there is a strong indication that Lai Durian is orignated from the natural crossing of D. zibethinus and D. kutejensis and called as Durio zibethinus x kutejensis. Lai Durian fruit has positive combination properties originated from its parents (D. zibethinus and D. kutejensis) such as sweet (high sugar content), thick and attractive color (yellow) aril, soft and dry texture (low water and fiber content), not fragrant, high protein content, long shelf life at room temperature, and high percentage of the edible fruit part that are more preferred by consumers. Therefore, Lai Durian has a high economic potential value to be improved as a National Excellent Fruit Varitey in Indonesia.