Genetic Variability in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum MILL) Genotypes in the Central Rift Valley, Ethiopia

Investigation of variability existing in crop cultivars is important to crop improvement. The study was conducted at Melkassa Agricultural Research Center (MARC) to assess the genetic variability among 36 tomato genotypes using 6*6 simple lattice designs. There were significant differences among genotypes all traits. High phenotypic and genotypic variances were recorded for number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit shape index and juice volume indicating the existence of substantial variability. High heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of the mean was exhibited by characters viz. plant height, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit shape index and juice volume, reflecting the presence of additive gene action for the expression of these traits and selection based on them would be ideal. Generally, the present study implied the presence of genetic variability among the test genotypes with respect to the traits considered indicating an opportunity to bring about fruit yield improvements in snap bean either through direct selection or hybridization.