The analyses of morphological seed traits of Turkish hazel have been performed in the marginal part of its natural range for the purpose of familiarizing with the variability of its natural populations. In September 2020, the seeds were collected in one cultivated and seven natural populations of Turkish hazel for the purpose of research. The inter-population variability was determined based on five measured morphometric parameters and one derived ratio. Nut length ranges from 15.24 to 17.76 mm, width from 14.17 to 15.80 mm, thickness from 10.92 to 12.38, and weight from 1.23 to 1.45 g. The obtained results showed the presence of significant variability of morphological seed traits and indicated high phenotypic variability of the researched traits and genetic differentiation of Turkish hazel populations in Serbia. The Južni Kučaj population has the largest nuts, so it can be recommended as a future seed source. The Sokolovica population has the smallest nuts. The highest variability was determined in the populations of Vukan-Krilaš and Divčibare. Therefore, the selection of these two populations for seed facilities has been confirmed as right in the conducted analyses. The results of the analysis of variance showed statistically significant differences among the researched populations for all observed traits. The available gene pool of Turkish hazel is characterized by a satisfactory degree of genetic variability, representing a good starting point for the further breeding process. The studied populations must be included in continuous conservation and breeding processes, especially by forms of in situ and ex situ conservation.
Cite this article as: Popović, V., Lučić, A., Jovanović, S., Mladenović, K., & Rakonjac, L. (2022). The variability of Turkish hazel (Corylus colurna L.) populations in Serbia according to morphological nut traits. Forestist, 72(1), 41-47.