Structural, morphometric and GC–MS metabolic analysis of seven Saudi Arabian date palm cultivars

Abstract

This study presents a multidimensional structural–metabolic analysis of seven Saudi Arabian date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars integrating biomass allocation, morphometric traits, and GC–MS phytochemical profiling of embryo, seed, and fruit tissues. Significant variation was observed in biomass, dry matter distribution, and morphometric parameters, with a hierarchy (fruit flesh > seed > embryo). GC–MS analysis revealed tissue-specific metabolic specialization. Embryos and seeds were enriched in unsaturated fatty acids, oleic and linoleic acids, whereas fruit flesh contained higher proportions of oxygenated metabolites, including γ-lactones and carbonyl compounds. Hierarchical clustering based on phytochemical composition separated cultivars into distinct chemotypic groups, highlighting cultivar-dependent metabolic divergence. These findings indicate coordinated structural allocation and metabolite accumulation define cultivar identity and provide a framework for cultivar discrimination and targeted nutritional and industrial applications.

Bangladesh J. Bot. 55(3): 463-469, 2026 (September)