Genotype × environment interaction and molecular marker analyses reveal stable tomato lines for yield components, TSS and tomato leaf curl disease resistance

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze genotype-by-environment interactions (GEI) related to yield as well as its component traits, and resistance against tomato leaf curl disease (ToLCD) using GGE biplot analysis. Based on prior research, selected tomato genotypes were evaluated for horticultural traits such as average fruit weight, yield, total soluble solids (TSS) and ToLCD resistance (natural hot-spot conditions) over five consecutive years (2020-2025). Additionally, molecular markers were employed to identify the presence of ToLCD resistance genes (Ty-2 and Ty-3) in these genotypes. Field screenings categorized the genotypes into highly resistant, resistant, and moderately resistant groups. GEI analysis was conducted using GGE biplot techniques, with the R ‘metan’ package utilized for various visualizations, including mean vs. stability view and MGIDI analysis. Overall, 15 superior genotypes were identified based on average fruit weight, fruit yield, TSS and ToLCD resistance such as VRT-19, VRT-34, VRT-50, VRT-51, ToDVAR-5, ToLCV-32, H-88-78-1, H-88-78-2, jointless tomatoes VRJT-24, VRJT-32, VRJT-41-2, VRJT-37, VRJT-94; orange color tomato KB-17 and KB-3-1. These genotypes can be used in breeding to introgress yield-related traits and ToLCD resistance.