A Study of Variation in Chicozapote (Manilkara zapota)

Hoyt J Heaton

This is the complete text of my Master's thesis, finished in June of 1997. The first chapter consists of a general review of all available and relevant literature on the chicozapote, with a focus on cultivation. The second chapter is a study examined genetic variation in morphologically and geographically distinct populations of chicozapote in the Yucatan peninsula. An extensive bibliography of Manilkara zapota resources is included at the end of the thesis. If you have any questions or comments on anything in this thesis, please e-mail me at hoyt@xmission.com.

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Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Overview

Chapter 1 The Chicozapote (Manilkara zapota, Sapotaceae), an Underdeveloped Tropical Fruit Crop

Introduction

Description

Nomenclature

Taxonomy

Botany

Chemistry and Physiology

Distribution

Uses

Prehistory

Chicleros (1880-1950)

Modern Chicleros

Medicinal Uses

Ornamental Use

Cultivation

Cultivars

Propagation

Harvest and Post-Harvest

Pests

Conclusion

Chapter 2 - Extreme Ecological and Phenotypic Differences in Chicozapote (Manilkara zapota) are not Matched by Genetic Divergence: A RAPD Analysis

Introduction:

Materials and Methods:

Results:

Discussion:

Bibliography