Diversity analysis of tomato genotypes based on morphological traits with commercial breeding significance for fresh market production in eastern USA

Abstract

Tomato is one of the most economically important vegetable crops in the world. Objective of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of tomato based on its horticultural traits. Seventy-one tomato genotypes were planted and grown in two replications with randomized complete block design for two years. Diversity analysis produced six distinct clusters based on average-linkage method. Five principal components (PC) explained more than 92% of the phenotypic variation. Clusters produced in this analysis can be of importance for breeding programs developing specific fruit types based on consumer's demand.