Assessment of genetic variability for quality traits in F1 generation tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) grown under polyhouse conditions

This study aimed to assess genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes to identify key traits for breeding programs. Ten parent and their twenty-one hybrids which were developed through line x tester design were examined under polyhouse conditions. Significant differences across all traits were observed in the analysis of variance, demonstrating ample genetic variability. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation for traits like lycopene content (mg/100 g), titrable acidity (%) and beta-carotene (mg/100 g) indicated strong potential for improvement through selection. All the traits exhibited high heritability, among which titrable acidity and lycopene, reflecting a strong genetic influence. All the traits also showed high genetic advance as a percent of the mean, emphasizing their suitability for genetic enhancement. Traits with high heritability and genetic advance were identified as ideal for selection in breeding efforts.