A First Report on Morphological and Biochemical Characterization of a Rare CNSL Free Cashew Mutant

Cashew is the third most important edible tree nut in the global market. The edible portion of cashew nut (kernel) is covered by cashew nutshell. Cashew nutshell contains dark brown viscous oil called cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). Interestingly, we observed rare CNSL free mutant in our germplasm. Hence, the present study was carried out to understand the morphological and biochemical differences between the CNSL free mutant (NRC-116) and CNSL containing (Bhaskara) genotype. Morphologically, NRC-116 differed from Bhaskara in leaf shape and dimensions, and reproductive characteristics like sex ratio and yield-related traits. The nutshell thickness of NRC-116 was significantly less compared to Bhaskara. Biochemical analysis showed that NRC-116 is absolutely free of CNSL and significantly differed from Bhaskara in kernel FAs, proteins, oils and phenolics. Thus, the CNSL free nature of NRC-116 presents it as a unique genetic material for understanding CNSL biosynthetic pathway.

Automated summary

Cashew is the third most important edible tree nut in the global market, and the cashew nutshell contains cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). A rare CNSL free mutant was observed in the germplasm, and this study aimed to understand the morphological and biochemical differences between the mutant and the normal CNSL containing genotype. The mutant showed significant differences in leaf shape, dimensions, sex ratio, yield-related traits, and biochemical composition compared to the normal genotype, making it a unique genetic material for studying the CNSL biosynthetic pathway.