Two New IVIA Triploid Mandarin Hybrids: 'Alborea' and 'Albir'

Abstract

In the Mediterranean area, citrus fruits are primarily produced for the fresh fruit market and Spain is the principal producer of the area. Seedlessness is one of the most important characteristics for mandarin fresh fruits. Triploid hybrids allow implementing this trait in commercial cultivars. In this work we described 'Alborea' and 'Albir', two new triploid hybrids originated from the IVIA triploid breeding program, which will be soon released to growers. 'Alborea' was obtained from an open pollinated 'Fortune' mandarin. Fruits reach optimum maturity at the beginning of January, although they can be harvested from December until the end of January. Fruits are easy-to-peel, with a diameter of 50-60 mm, and rind is deep orange red in color. 'Albir' was obtained from a cross between 'Fortune' and 'Kara' mandarins. Fruits reach optimum maturity at the beginning of February, although they can be harvested from January until second half of February. Fruits are easy-to-peel with a diameter of 60-70 mm and fruit rind is orange red in color. This variety has the same origin as 'Safor', a previously released triploid hybrid. The fruits of the two varieties are somewhat similar, but 'Albir' matures one month earlier. With these cultivars, 'Albir' and 'Safor', it will be possible to supply similar fruits to the market from January to the end of March.