Diversity and stability of peanut kernel quality in different ecological regions of Shandong Province

In order to understand the diversity and quality stability of peanut kernel in different ecological zones, a multi-locational experiment involving three peanut varieties (“Huayu 22”, a traditional big-pod type mainly for export; “Luhua 11”, ordinary high-yield big-pod type; “Huayu 23”, traditional small-pod type also for export) was conducted in major peanut production regions in Shandong Province. Results show that kernel fat content ranges 43.67% ～ 52.75%, with an average of 47.98%. Peanuts cultivated in the eastern regions have higher kernel fat content than those in the central and western regions of Shandong; and peanuts planted in spring contain more fat than those in summer. Kernel protein content of peanuts grown in Shandong Province ranges from 18.18% ～ 25.73%, with an average of 22.36%, which also varies for different ecological regions in the province (central-south region > eastern region > western region). But no obvious difference between spring-planted peanut and summer-intercropped peanut is observed. Though there is high environmental influence, both the environment and variety have significant effect on kernel fat and protein content. The fat and protein contents of spring-planted “Huayu22”and summer-intercropped “Luhua 11”are stable, while “Huayu 23”is environmentally sensitive. Whether sown in spring or intercropped in summer, fat and protein contents of “Huayu 22”are not only high but as well relatively stable.