A survey of shape variation in some New Zealand apples

摘要

Abstract Measurements of apples from main fruit-growing districts in New Zealand showed that fruit shape in some varieties, notably ‘Delicious’, varied consistently with locality. Possible influence of climate on apple shape is discussed with special reference to spring temperatures. Variation in apple dimensions due to these climatic factors must reduce the value of fruit shape as a criterion in identification of apple varieties, especially for those varieties that produce pronounced crowns in cold climates.