Estimation of m + a′ for commercial hybrids of yellow melon

Abstract

Estimation of m + a′ and d is a promising strategy to guide the selection of crop populations and lines. This study aimed to predict the contribution of homozygous loci (m + a′) to agronomic characters of commercial hybrids of yellow melon. Seven single-cross commercial hybrids (F1) of yellow melon were used (H1, H2, H3, H5, H4, H6, and H7), as well as their self-pollinated progenies (F2), totaling 14 populations. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications. Fruit number, average fruit weight, yield, pulp thickness, pulp firmness, and soluble solids content were assessed. The data were subjected to a likelihood ratio test, deviance analysis, m + a′ and d estimation, and correlation analysis. Five of the six characters evaluated showed m + a′ values close to or greater than 90%. These values suggest that most loci are fixed for these traits. Inbreeding depression for fruit number, average fruit weight, pulp thickness, pulp firmness, and soluble solids is minimal. Hybrids H6, H4, and H5 showed promise for the selection of superior lines.