Document Type : Research Article
Authors
1 Department of Horticulture, Agricultural College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Pakdasht, Iran
2 tehran university
Abstract
Introduction: Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), belonging to the Solanaceae family with a chromosome number of 2n=2x=24, is recognized as the second most cultivated vegetable worldwide after potatoes. Despite its global importance, a significant proportion of tomato seeds used in Iran are imported. To address this, a comprehensive breeding program has been undertaken, resulting in the development of over 1,500 inbred lines. The most promising lines have been selected for hybrid development. This study focuses on evaluating and comparing 26 selected hybrids out of a total of 180, intending to identify superior varieties in terms of yield and fruit quality. Gaining insights into the advantages of these superior hybrids can contribute to the development of varieties that better meet consumer demands while also promoting agricultural sustainability
Material and Methods: This research was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station in Mohammadshahr, Karaj City, Alborz Province, involving the evaluation of 26 selected tomato hybrids from the Abouraihan Campus of Tehran University. The experiment was arranged as a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with eight plants per plot. The hybrids were compared to three commercial cultivars—Matin, Brivio, and Bedero—as well as an old hybrid, H12, used as a control. Seedlings were prepared in February 2024, with 32 seeds from each genotype sown into trays filled with a 1:1 mixture of peat moss and perlite. The spacing between rows was 2 meters, and the distance between two plants within a row was 50 centimeters. Throughout the trial, standard agronomic practices, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest management, were implemented. Evaluations encompassed both field and laboratory assessments, focusing on quantitative and qualitative traits. Over a single growing season, the hybrids were assessed for attributes such as fruit size, weight, color, and biochemical parameters including pH, total soluble solids (TSS), and titratable acidity. After the experiment, raw data were organized using Excel, followed by normality tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and mean comparisons via Duncan’s method in SAS software. Qualitative traits were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and principal component analysis was performed with R software.
Results: The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the hybrids across various traits. Key quantitative traits evaluated included fruit yield per plant, fruit weight, number of fruits, calyx stability, and ripening index. Results showed that hybrid H114 produced the highest number of fruits (83), while gH74 had the lowest (38). The average fruit weight ranged from 62 grams in gH15 to 136 grams in gH47. Calyx stability was notably higher in hybrids gH54 and H95, which is important for maintaining post-harvest quality. Regarding ripening, hybrids H186, H165, H163, and H114 were among the earliest to mature, requiring less than 95 days to reach harvest readiness. In terms of shelf life, hybrids gH168, gH181, and gH54 exhibited superior durability, lasting up to 13 days. The study also identified significant correlations among traits; for instance, a positive relationship between fruit firmness and overall yield suggested that denser fruits are often associated with higher productivity. Qualitative assessments, which included fruit firmness, shape uniformity, and taste, showed a wide variation in firmness levels, with commercial varieties Brivio and Bedero displaying the highest firmness. Additionally, meaningful correlations among traits—such as the positive relationship between the number of fruits and total yield—were observed. The discussion emphasizes the implications of these findings for breeding programs, highlighting the potential to select hybrids not only for higher yield but also for improved quality traits like flavor and shelf life.
Conclusions: In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of hybrid selection for optimizing tomato production. The results revealed significant differences among the evaluated hybrids in several key quantitative and qualitative traits. Some hybrids demonstrated the potential to rival commercial varieties used as controls. To identify the superior hybrids, comprehensive evaluation and analysis of the measured traits were performed, with prioritization based on their relative importance. All traits were assessed simultaneously across all hybrids, with certain hybrids excelling in specific characteristics. Based on the overall findings, hybrids H163, gH55, and gH57 were identified as the top-performing options. Further research involving long-term field trials under diverse environmental conditions is recommended to enhance the adaptability and practical viability of these hybrids in agricultural production.
Acknowledgements: The authors gratefully acknowledge Zhinodaneh Company and the University of Tehran for their support.
Keywords: Fruit quality, Hybrid variety, Plant Breeding, Shelf life.
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