Promising Novel Coconut Hybrids (TxT and DxT) with Ayiramkachi as a Common Parent

Abstract

Hybridization is a key strategy for improving coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) productivity. However, the genetic potential of indigenous semi-tall varieties remains largely unexplored. This study evaluated nine novel F1 hybrids developed using the semi-tall genotype ‘Ayiramkachi’ (AYK) as a common parent to identify elite combinations with high yield and desirable agronomic traits. The hybrids, along with their parents, were evaluated from 2021 to 2023 for vegetative, reproductive, yield, and quality parameters. Significant variation (P<0.05) was observed for all traits. The hybrid Laccadive Micro x Ayiramkachi (LM x AYK) was the most outstanding, recording the highest annual nut yield (101.5 nuts/palm). For quality traits, Philippines x Ayiramkachi (PHI x AYK) yielded the highest copra content (218.96 g/nut), while West Coast Tall x Ayiramkachi (WCT x AYK) showed the highest oil content (68.5%). Conversely, the hybrid AYK x Malayan Yellow Dwarf (AYK x MYD) was the poorest performer in terms of both yield and quality. The study identifies LM x AYK as a promising candidate for commercial cultivation due to its superior nut yield and semi-dwarf stature, demonstrating the high utility of ‘Ayiramkachi’ as a parent for transmitting high female flower production and moderate palm height in coconut breeding programmes.