Characterization and Evaluation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes for Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability and Yield Attributes

Abstract

The present study evaluated 57 tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes for their growth, yield and quality traits, alongside DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability) characterization. Significant variation was observed for plant height (79.53 to 192.81 cm), number of fruits per plant (36.0 to 159.50), fruit weight (7.80 to 82.10 g), pericarp thickness (2.33 to 7.83 mm), TSS (3.07 to 5.20 °Brix), lycopene content (2.33 to 4.11 mg/100g) and yield per plant (846.0 to 3908.73 g). Genotypes Khori leikai, EC-620498 and EC-620543 exhibited superior yield and quality traits. DUS analysis revealed wide morphological diversity in growth habit, leaf type, fruit shape and coloration. Most genotypes had determinate growth, serrated leaves and smooth fruit surfaces. Traits such as pericarp thickness, TSS and locule number are valuable for processing and shelf life considerations. The findings highlight the potential of these genotypes for varietal improvement, genetic conservation and commercial tomato breeding programs aimed at yield, processing quality and market adaptability.