Variation in Fruit Yield and Correlations between Seed Quality Components and Fruit Yield of Tomato (<i>Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill</i>)

Abstract

Five tomato lines (CLN 2070A, CLN 2123A, CLN 2116B, CLN 20260 AND CLN 1314G) bred by the Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center (A. V. R. D. C) Shanshua, China and two local cultivars (Yoruba and Hausa locals) were assessed for their environmental seed quality response and relationship among fruit yield and seed quality components. Trials were carried out in two locations- Odeda and Abeokuta. Data were collected on growth, yield and seed quality parameters. All parameters collected except fruit color, days to 50% flowering, number of seeds per fruit and plant height were significant with location. The data revealed that CLN 2123A was the best in fruit yield, seed yield, seed quality components which are the most desired characters sought for in tomato. Seedling vigour and emergence were highest in Hausa local. especially in Odeda. The observed colours and shapes did not differ from those described by the A. V.R.D.C about the fruit of tomato. However, the fruit color of CLN 2070A was light yellow while CLN 20260 and YORUBA local were reddish, with others being intermediate. This study revealed high heritability for 1000-seed-weight, number of seeds/fruit, fruit colour, fruit size, standard germination and days to 50% flowering, indicating that these characters are not easily inf1uenced by the environment. Hausa local was the highest in seed size in both locations. It also had the highest seedling vigour in Odeda, although exotic cultivars such as 2123 A surpassed all others with respect to seed yield/fruit. A strong positive correlation exists between Days to 50% flowering and fruit size in both locations (r = + O. 57**, + O. 72**). Similarly a strong negative association exists between number of seeds per fruit and 1000-seed-weight in both locations (r = - 0.64**, r = - 0.63**), implying that as number of seed per fruit increases the 1000 seed weight decreases. As the consumers' interest in tomato is determined by colour, shape and size, therefore (apart from Yoruba local), CLN 2123 A, 1314G and 2026D could be proposed for further studies on their seed quality response to fertilizer application (i. e. organic and inorganic) for commercial production.

Keywords: Seed quality, seedling emergence, fruit yield, heritability, tomato

Tanzania J.Agric.Sc. (2007) Vol. 8 No.2, 115-126