Evaluation of potato clones for heat tolerance in the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate potato clones previously selected for heat tolerance as to choose the most adapted and stable ones for use as parent varieties in future breeding programs or as new cultivars for the market. Ninety-one clones and eight controls were evaluated, among them three cultivars widely planted in the state of Minas Gerais and three cultivars considered to be heat tolerant. Six trials were carried out in different growing seasons in the southern region of Minas Gerais State (Brazil), in both mild and high temperatures. It was possible to identify genotypes which are highly stable when subjected to high temperatures and responsive under mild temperature conditions, especially the clones CBM 7-78 and SR2 50-04. The rank summation index allowed the greatest genetic gain for all traits together. The clones SR2 35-05 and CBM 4-48 have ideal traits for the fresh market. Clone SR2 53-02 has long shaped tubers and high tuber specific gravity, ideal traits for the frozen pre-fried products industry. For the chip industry, the clones CBM 7-12 and CBM 7-78 are most recommended, due to their rounded shape and high dry matter content.