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Propagation of superior durian (Durio zibethinus) are constrained due to the limited number of the tree. Grafting and budding are commonly used in durian propagation, however these techniques give destructive effect to mother plant. Alternatively, in vitro technique can be chosen for propagation of superior durian. The research aims to study the possibility of durian flower bud as an explant for micropropagation because this part is relatively more sterile than other organs. Half strength Murashige dan Skoog media were used to grow explant with addition of 1 ppm 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and various combinations of sucrose concentration (30 gr/L, 50 gr/L and 70 gr/L), and Thidiazuron (TDZ, 0.2 ppm, 0.4 ppm and 0.8 ppm). Totally, there were nine treatment combinations with six replications, respectively. Parameters observed were number of explants-producing callus, colour and callus morphology. The result indicated that flower bud of durian had a potential as an explant for micropropagation due to their ability to induce callogenesis (69.2%). Combination of 45 gr/L sucrose and 0.8 ppm TDZ gave the best result in inducing callus growth. Most of the callus showed white colour and friable callus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kundur area in Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia is very well known for having many superior durian cultivars. It is foretold that most of durian plants on the island are originally grown from seeds derived from Malaysian durian. Superiorities of Kundur durian are differently unique in taste, texture and arylus colour. This study aimed to analyse the diversity of superior durian in Kundur using morphological properties and characteristics. Vegetative and generative phases of 30 durian cultivars were observed in five vegetative and seven generative properties. Characteristics that can be observed in each trait were transformed to scores then analysed using the NTSYS-pc 2.02 program to determine the level of similarity/diversity of Kundur durian cultivars. Results showed that similarity of Kundur durian cultivars ranged from 37-78% or had a diversity of 22-63%. There were no cultivars that showed 100% similarity. Based on the results of Pearson's correlation analysis, 30 of the 48 characteristics observed were positively correlated. Based on fruit characteristics that consumers like, 33.3% Kundur durian is preferred because it has an arylus thickness > 10 mm, 80% has a bittersweet taste, 26.7% arylus is dark yellow, and 77% arylus texture is soft and dry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]