Morphological trait analysis in tomato germplasm: Exploring essential descriptors

Abstract

This study evaluates tomato germplasm lines acquired from ICAR-NBPGR, India, and various vegetable research stations, characterized under field conditions using a Randomized Block Design (RBD). Thirty genotypes were assessed based on ten qualitative traits, including leaf color, leaf pubescence, petiole pubescence, stem type, stem thickness, stem pigmentation, flower size, flower color, fruit size, and fruit shape. Significant variations among genotypes were observed, highlighting their unique morphological characteristics. These distinctive traits serve as valuable morphological markers for selection in segregating populations and for varietal identification in DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) testing. The findings suggest potential applications in breeding programs aimed at improving tomato cultivars through various breeding strategies. The unique combinations of these traits can significantly contribute to the development of superior tomato varieties with desirable horticultural characteristics.