Glossary

Genotype is the genetic constitution of an organism. A mango seedling formed through fertilization has its own genetic combination, whereas a grafted scion normally preserves the genotype of its source tree. Genotype is distinct from phenotype, the characteristics actually observed under particular conditions. Poor flavor from immature fruit or weak growth in a saturated pot does not by itself demonstrate that a correctly labeled graft has changed genetically. Identity questions need provenance and, where appropriate, more specialized evidence.

Germplasm is genetic material maintained or used for conservation, research, or breeding. In mangoes it can be represented by living trees, seeds, or other suitable plant material, accompanied by records that describe its identity and origin. A collection of many unlabeled trees is much less useful than a documented collection. Because seed propagation can change genotype and mango seed is not suited to conventional long-term dry storage, living collections and reliable vegetative propagation have particular importance.