Development of ovoid shaped and high yielding novel variety ‘Anand Roma’ in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Abstract

Self-life is the prime objective of marketing in tomato. With the aim of breeding an extended shelf-life tomato variety, a novel genotype was developed through the pedigree method, originating from the cross ATL 97-26 x GP 11. The tomato variety ‘Anand Roma’, gave yields of 469.34 q/ha, 401.70 q/ha, 367.88 q/ha, 417.34 q/ha, 417.34 q/ha, 417.34 q/ha, and 404.98 q/ha across multiple trials in middle Gujarat surpassing seven check varieties viz., GT 2 (46.43%), AT 3 (35.34%), JT 3 (38.39%), GAT 5 (13.25%), GT 6 (26.57%), GT 7 (20.31%), and DVRT 2 (26.03%), respectively. Characterized by a determinate growth pattern, this variety exhibits optimal light absorption, resulting in vibrant green foliage. The fruit morphology of ATL 16-06 is typified by an ovoid shape with a tapered blossom end, ranging from flat to pointed. Noteworthy is its extended shelf life, with fruits retaining quality for approximately 8.80 days, surpassing GAT 5 and DVRT 2. With its nutritional richness and biochemical equilibrium, ATL 16-06 demonstrates antioxidant potential and resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses. DNA fingerprinting analysis of ATL 16-06, GAT 5(C), and DVRT 2 (NC) revealed significant genetic differences, highlighting ATL 16-06's distinctiveness from both GAT 5 and DVRT 2. This variety presents a promising option for middle Gujarat, offering improved yields and enhanced resilience to agricultural challenges.