Selection of Short-Day Strawberry Genotypes through Multivariate Analysis

Area of Science:

• Horticulture
• Plant Breeding
• Genetics

Background:

• Strawberry cultivars adapted to temperate climates underperform in tropical conditions.
• Imported strawberry varieties often fail to reach their genetic potential in tropical environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and select short-day strawberry genotypes for tropical climates.
• Utilize multivariate analyses to identify superior genotypes based on fruit quality and productivity.

Main Methods:

• Intraspecific crosses were performed using 'Camino Real' as the female parent.
• Genotypes were evaluated for productivity and post-harvest traits including total fruit mass, soluble solids, and firmness.
• Multivariate analyses and a selection index were employed to identify superior genotypes from 1500 initial candidates.

Main Results:

• 44 superior genotypes were selected, outperforming 13 control varieties.
• The RVDA11CR59 genotype showed exceptional individual performance, while the RVCS44CR population yielded the most selected individuals.
• Multivariate analysis successfully grouped genotypes with similar performance, aiding in the selection of balanced varieties.

Conclusions:

• Multivariate analysis is effective for selecting balanced strawberry genotypes for tropical climates.
• Selected genotypes demonstrate improved production and post-harvest characteristics suitable for tropical environments.
• High heritability and genetic variation support the selection of improved strawberry varieties for tropical agriculture.