Summary
This study evaluated fruit quality traits across seven native cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme) genotypes and a commercial hybrid (H-790) grown under controlled greenhouse hydroponics. While the commercial hybrid demonstrated superior firmness and shelf-life stability, most native genotypes exhibited higher internal quality characteristics, particularly JCPRV-76 (35.4% higher ascorbic acid), JCPRV-09 (6.1% higher lycopene), and JCPRV-43 (23% higher titratable acidity). The findings suggest these native genotypes represent valuable germplasm for breeding programmes aimed at enhancing fruit nutritional density.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in Mexico under greenhouse hydroponics conditions. Whilst the native tomato germplasm is geographically specific, the findings have potential relevance to United Kingdom horticulture if these genotypes or their superior trait alleles could be adapted to UK climate conditions or greenhouse production systems. Transferability would depend on testing performance under temperate conditions and market acceptance of flavour and texture profiles.
Key measures
Firmness (penetration resistance), days at 7% weight loss, pH, total soluble solids (°Brix), titratable acidity (%), lycopene content, β-carotene content, ascorbic acid content
Outcomes reported
The study compared physical and nutritional quality attributes (firmness, shelf-life, soluble solids, acidity, lycopene, β-carotene, and ascorbic acid) across seven native tomato genotypes and a commercial cherry tomato hybrid grown in greenhouse hydroponics. Most native genotypes exceeded the commercial hybrid in internal quality parameters except firmness and pH.
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