Pigment and oil content estimation in seeds of Bixa orellana L.

Abstract

Bixa orellana L. is an economic tree native to the Neotropics. It is perennial in nature growing up to a height ranging from 2 to 8 m. Bixa orellana L. shows phenotypic variation in flower color, pod color, pod shape, height as well as girth. The tree gives a natural colorant called ‘Annatto’ that is second most demanded dye in the world. Selection of trees based on high pigment content becomes a must for this economic tree. Identification of phenotypic character for selection of trees with desirable pigment content was the aim of the study. It was found that cordate pods with green pericarp and maroon bristles gave the highest bixin content, although norbixin content was found to be similar in all pod shapes, cordate pods with maroon pericarp and bristles were advantageous. For selection for oil content conical pods with maroon pericarp and bristles were the most appropriate amongst all.