Genotypic variation and hierarchical clustering of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) based on morphological and biochemical traits

Abstract

The genotypic divergence and hierarchical clustering based on morphological and biochemical traits was studied in forty tomato genotypes of diverse genetic background. Significant differences were recorded for the morphological characters among the genotypes. Highest variability was observed in plant height followed by average fruit weight and number of fruits per plant. Line LA-3947-1 had maximum pericarp thickness (6.4 mm). The genotype developed at IIVR, viz., VRT-31-1 had the maximum fruit weight whereas maximum yield was recorded in cv. Sel-7. The genotypic variation for components affecting the quality of tomato fruits were also studied extensively and was found highly significant. Correlation study showed that yield was positively correlated with number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit diameter and number of locules. Significant positive correlation was observed between plant height and number of branches. Lycopene was highly correlated with total carotenoids and pH. Negative association was observed with pH and vitamin C contents. Multivariate hierarchical cluster analysis to classify genotypes according to their degree of similarity in morphological and biochemical traits was assessed which expressed 2 clusters of 6 and 34 and 3 and 37 members, respectively.