Assessment of Phenotypic Diversity in Tomato Genotypes Based on Morphological, Physical, Chemical, and Descriptive Traits

Articles in Press

Document Type : Full Paper

Authors

Depart,ment of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tehran, Karaj- Iran

10.22059/ijhs.2025.395727.2276

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the phenotypic diversity among 39 tomato genotypes (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The plant materials included a range of both local and commercial cultivars that were examined to identify valuable traits for breeding and crop improvement. The experiment was carried out under field conditions using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The evaluated traits encompassed morphological characteristics (such as fruit shape and size), physical attributes (firmness and density), chemical properties (pH, titratable acidity, TSS, and TSS/TA ratio), as well as descriptive traits such as fruit color, pericarp thickness, and number of locules. The results of analysis of variance and Duncan’s multiple range test revealed significant differences among genotypes at the 1% probability level. Traits such as total fruit weight per plant, number of fruits, fruit firmness, and TSS/TA ratio showed the greatest variation among the genotypes. To identify phenotypic clustering patterns, hierarchical cluster analysis using Ward’s method was also performed, resulting in distinct genotype groupings. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable basis for selecting superior parental lines of tomato in breeding programs aimed at enhancing yield, fruit quality, and developing cultivars adapted to various production goals and market demands.

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Iranian Journal of Horticultural Science

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 July 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 30 June 2025
  • Accept Date: 01 July 2025

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