Selection parameters for productive plant type in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)

One hundred twenty six genotypes of tomato comprising collections of indigenous and exotic were evaluated during summer 2006. There were significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits under study. Average fruit weight, showed highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation followed by number of fruits/plant, fruit yield (q/ha), number of locules/plant, plant height, pericarp thickness and number of branches/plant, while it was moderate for days to 50% flowering. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain were observed for average fruit weight, number of fruits/plant, fruit yield, plant height, number of locules/fruit, pericarp thickness and number of branches/plant, however, days to 50% flowering has high heritability and moderate genetic gain. Hence due emphasis should be given to these traits while selecting the genotypes for higher yield in tomato. Correlation studies showed that fruit yield (q/ha) was significantly and positively correlated with average fruit weight and number of fruits/plant, however, a positive and significant genotypic and phenotypic correlation was also observed for average fruit weight with number of locules/fruit, pericarp thickness and days to 50% flowering; and number of branches/plant with plant height and number of fruits/plant. Hence, these important yield contributing traits can be effectively used for simultaneous improvement of plant phenotype. Path analysis studies for fruit yield revealed that average fruit weight is the most important yield contributing traits followed by number of fruits/plant. Hence, due emphasis should be placed on these traits while selecting the genotypes for higher yield in tomato.