Phenotypic, phytochemical and mineral characterization of wild Prunus cerasifera genotypes from Eastern Anatolia

This study examined the associations between genotypic variation, environmental conditions, and the phytochemical composition, mineral content, and antioxidant capacity of wild Prunus cerasifera genotypes in diverse ecogeographic regions of Eastern Anatolia (Türkiye). Thirteen genotypes were evaluated for morphological, physicochemical, and biochemical traits under varying climatic conditions, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, and solar radiation. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed the multidimensional nature of this variation, indicating that environmental variables, particularly temperature and solar radiation, were associated with differences in mineral accumulation and phenolic compound levels. Warmer and sunnier environments were linked to higher nutritional density, while genotypes from more humid conditions exhibited a "dilution effect," reflecting a balance between fruit size and bioactive compound concentration. Substantial variation was observed among genotypes, with up to a five-fold difference in total phenolic content and marked differences in mineral composition, highlighting the broad genetic diversity in wild populations. Certain genotypes showed notable nutritional characteristics: 44PC01 had the highest flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity, 23PC05 accumulated higher levels of macroelements (Mg, K, Ca), and 44PC03 and 44PC07 contained the highest microelements (Fe, Zn, Cr). Partial correlation analysis, after accounting for genotypic differences, suggested that genetic background was the main source of variation in fruit quality traits, while associations with environmental variables were comparatively weaker. Overall, these findings provide evidence of phenotypic and biochemical diversity among wild P. cerasifera genotypes and emphasize their value as genetic resources for conservation and future multi-year breeding studies.