Characterization of Tomato Landraces Grown under Organic Conditions Based on Molecular Marker Analysis and Determination of Fruit Quality Parameters

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess seven tomato genotypes (commercial cultivars and local landraces) with respect to yield potential, physicochemical and sensory properties when cultivated under organic conditions, over two growing seasons. Traits like yield ingredients and fruit quality were measured whereas, the morphological traits were assessed according to the UPOV classification, starting from the seedling stage until the stage of fruit maturity. Total yield per plant and cultivar determined, while assessment of fruit quality was performed on the basis of physicochemical characteristics (content in vitamin C, acidity, pH of the juice, soluble materials). Genotype fingerprinting was performed by means of RAPD analysis. Following a preliminary evaluation of 50 RAPD primers, 10 polymorphic primers were selected and used in RAPD-PCRs. Statistical data analysis revealed significant differences in a range of characteristics under study whereas at the same time, yield was significantly different both among the varieties and the harvest stages. Interestingly, the landraces tested, especially Homiricon and Lotos, presented important organoleptic attributes under organic growing conditions and were met with high consumer acceptance, thus suggesting their possible direct exploitation in the market or after the application of an intravarietal selection breeding program.