Multi-trait selection and genetic progress in tiger melon (Cucumis melo L.) lines
Francisco Leandro Costa Loureiro, Adriano Ferreira Martins, Denilson Eduardo Silva Dantas, Ruth Mainá Penha da Silva, Geovanna Alicia Dantas Gomes, Maxsuel Marcos Fernandes de Lima, Edicleide Macedo da Silva and Glauber Henrique de Sousa Nunes
Abstract: Melon is the most economically important cucurbit in the Brazilian Semiarid region, where recent efforts have focused on product diversification through the development of new melon types. This study aimed evaluate Tiger melon lines using the FAI-BLUP and MGIDI indices to identify genotypes combining high yield and quality for advancement in the breeding program. Twenty-four lines were evaluated in two trials conducted in a randomized block design with three replications. The following traits were evaluated: fruit yield, number of fruits per plant, mean fruit weight, pulp thickness, pulp firmness, and soluble solids. Genetic gains were observed for all traits. For the MGIDI index, gains ranged from 14.9% for pulp thickness to 72.5% for fruit weight. For the FAI-BLUP index, gains ranged from 0.39% for fruit yield to 26.36% for fruit weight. Based on both indices, lines TC-02, TC-03, TC-14, and TC-22 were identified as promising for breeding.