Variation in Seed Size Uniformity among Peanut Genotypes

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seed size is an important characteristic that determines both quality and value of a cultivar. The 100‐seed weight may differ among genotypes from <30 g to > 150 g. Size also varies within a genotype, and cultivars with more uniform seed size are desired for improved processing efficiency and marketing of peanut products. This study was conducted to obtain information about differences in seed size uniformity among peanut genotypes. Thirteen peanut genotypes were grown at Gainesville and Marianna, FL from 1987 to 1989 in a four replicate, randomized complete‐block experiment. Seed size variation was determined at harvest maturity by weighing the seeds that were separated by a series of screens conforming to official grade standards. Analysis of variance was used to examine differences in standard deviations of seed size. One genotype, F1037, had the most uniform seed size at both locations and in all years of the experiment. F1011 was similar in variability to F1037 in each year of the study at Gainsville but was more variable at Marianna. Conversely, UF86107 had more variation in seed size at Gainesville than F1037 but was similar to F1037 at Marianna. Genotypes with larger seed had more variation in seed size, although differences in uniformity existed for lines with similar sizes. Because some genotypes were less variable than the standard cultivar Florunner, development of cultivars with more uniform seed size should be possible.