Abstract
ACCUMULATION of annual intra- and inter-cultivar variation in diagnostic attributes of the dioecious mango (Mangifera indica) fruit trees render the accurate identification of such cultivars beset with problems and uncertainty. To overcome these problems, a data matrix was compiled to incorporate comparative observations on 34 characters of the fruits of 14 cultivars of mango (Mangifera indica L.) collected from Jazan region, southwestern of Saudi Arabia. The set of characters was analyzed under the key-generating patch of computer programs DELTA. Detailed and item descriptions of all characters of each cultivar as produced by the programs are provided. The key serves the purpose of accurate identification of the cultivars and the detailed descriptions provide an easy means of confirming the identification. The inherent flexibility of key-generating computer programs allows for the periodic revision and updating of the key and the descriptions of cultivars as well as its expansion to accommodate additional taxa and/or characters. Correct identification of a cultivar is of vital economic importance because it is the most essential element in determining its market value and, consequently, its profitability.