Phylogenetic and taxonomic status of Citrus halimii B.C. Stone determined by genotyping complemented by chemical analysis of leaf and fruit rind essential oils

Citrus phylogeny is currently based on genome analysis using molecular markers and sequencing. The 7 pure genetic groups that gave rise to all cultivated citrus underlie the diversity of accessions originating from Asia. However, there are wild forms whose phylogenetic position unknown, such as mountain citron (Citrus halimii B.C. Stone) was discovered in Malaysia early 1970s. We sought elucidate its status by determining profile with 30 SSR InDel distributed 9 chromosomes reference compared those represented 4 or 5 varieties each. study supplemented a comparison composition essential oils obtained fruit peel leaf hydrodistillation fruits used for genotyping. demonstrated C. not an interspecific hybrid (low heterozygosity) but rather true species shares common ancestor kumquats (Fortunella sp.), which would have evolved separately. aromatic profiles confirmed this kumquat/mountain relationship also highlighted uniqueness due presence high proportions compounds never been observed other fruits, germacrene d-8-one (accounting 8.7% oil).