Rapid identification of phosphorus-efficient genotypes from commercially grown tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties in a simulated soil solution

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study aimed at developing a successful scheme to identify P-efficient varieties. A simulated soil solution (SSS), comprised of Hoagland solution slightly modified with tri-calcium phosphate (TCP) as the sole P source, was evaluated. The identified SSS was then used to screen P-efficient tomato varieties based on their relative shoot dry biomass in a low P SSS condition (LP). The identified varieties were characterised for their P efficient traits including root characteristics and low-P stress factor (PSF). The nutrient solution with TCP and 15 mM extra CaCl2 was the best SSS for identifying P-efficient varieties. Among the tested varieties, ‘Japanese Black Trifele Og’ (JBT) and ‘Great White Og’ (GW) were the most P-efficient; ‘Green Tiger’ (GT) and ‘Chefs Choice Orange F1ʹ (CCO) were the least P-efficient varieties. JBT had the greatest relative root morphological traits (root dry mass, length, volume, and fork number) and the lowest PSF (30%). On the contrary, CCO had the greatest PSF (80%) indicating poor performance in LP condition. The selected P-efficient tomato varieties can also be used to identify the P efficiency regulating genes. In the future, improved tomato varieties can be developed through biotechnology and breeding programmes using the identified P-efficient genotypes.