Characterization of an olive accession in Malta

Abstract

This is a study to characterize a very old tree that could be a Maltese strain. This study was carried out in the year 2010, following the international protocols, so that the results could be compared to already existing databanks. The characterization of the olive tree was done through the examination of several characteristics. The main features that were examined were the morphological characteristics, the phenology characterization, the bio-Agronomic features and oil characteristics. The results for these test showed that the tree has high vigor, a medium internode length of fruiting shoots and medium sized leaves. The inflorescence is considered to be short with a medium-low number of flowers and thought to be self-compatible. The fruit is of medium size with a relatively heavy stone. Analyzing the fruit, it showed a high content of water and a firmness of 550g, the pulp to pit ratio was 5, which is considered good and the oil content was around 15.5% on fresh weight basis and 38.6% on dry weight basis. When confronting the results with the standards of the International Olive Council the oil extracted could be classified as extra virgin, the polyphenol content was medium and the palmitic, linoleic and oleic acids were 15%, 11 % and 68%, respectively, of the total fatty acids. This accession could be cultivated alone for the fact that the tree is self fertile. The weight of the olive (3g) is considered good for machine harvesting. The pulp/pit ratio is high, making this variety a good table olive. Oil percentage is not high but it must be kept in mind that the olives were not fully mature when the tests were carried out. Finally, it must be said that further studies must be done to determine the exact characteristics of the tree as they might differ from year to year. Other studies could include molecular characterization and more oil analysis.