Abstract:
The production of tomato in Ethiopia as well as in Amhara Region is low; this could be associated with lack of high yielding and high quality genotypes. Therefore the aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of 17 tomato genotypes at Fogera National Rice Research and Training Center under irrigation conditions in 2020. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that significant differences were observed among genotypes for all tested traits, indicating the presence of considerable genetic variability for further tomato improvement. Roma VFN, Melka Shola, Chali, Miya, Fetane, Roma VF, Melka Salsa, Sirinka-1 and ARP tomato D2 genotypes were matured earlier than the remaining genotypes. Miya, Cochoro, Melka Shola and Melka Salsa genotypes gave the highest marketable yield with the mean values of 58.09, 55.95, 53.67 and 52.843 t/ha, respectively. Gelilema (4.373) and Eshete (4.37) genotypes had the highest pH value. To135 F1 hybrid (4.40%) genotype had the highest TSS value. Highest value of TA was recorded in Eshete (1.02%) genotype. The difference between PCV and GCV was relatively small for most of the traits, implying that genotype contributed more than environment in the expression of the characters. High broad-sense heritability was observed for all traits. High heritability estimates coupled with high values of genetic advance as percent of mean observed among some traits; indicates that they were governed by additive gene action and therefore provides the most effective condition for selection. In terms of marketable yield; Miya, Cochoro, Melkahola and Melka Salsa genotypes of tomato can be recommended for the study area. These genotypes were also the most preferred by the farmers. However, it is advisable to repeat the experiment on different sites and years with more number of materials.
Keywords: Fruit yield, genetic advance, genetic variability, genotype, growth parameters, heritability and phenological parameters.