COMPARING OUTSTANDING PAPAYA LINES FOR SELECTING AND PRESERVING IMPROVED CHARACTERS

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate outstanding and adapted papaya lines derived from selection to conserve desirable characteristics. Design/methodology/approach: 23 lines of the 'Maradol' type were evaluated at Antunez Michoacan, Mexico. Initially, the plants' height, stem circumference, number of leaves, and first fruit height were recorded. During their development, outstanding plants were identified, and their self-pollinating was promoted. In the fruits, their polar and equatorial circumference, shape index, weight, width and pulp firmness, and soluble solids were assessed. Results: The plants' development was different, their variability between lines allowed identifying morphological characteristics of interest. Only 10 lines had this condition. The number of fruits formed over covered flower buds and collected fruits on formed fruits was reduced. The fruits´ characterization, except for their soluble solids, showed differences. Multivariate analysis indicated variability associated with each principal component. Limitations on study/implications: Currently in Mexico, there are few papaya varieties, the 'Maradol' variety being dominant, and vulnerable to phytosanitary problems over time. However, developing varieties and seed production is challenging and the pollination control of the plants necessarily intervenes. Findings/conclusions: Out of 23 assessed papaya lines, only 43.48 % reported outstanding plants. Inside these lines, between 5 and 10 % of the plants were chosen. In the developmental progress from the covered flower buds’ stage to formed and collected fruits, only 28 % of fruits were obtained. The selected lines showed fruit variability.