We evaluated 24 genotypes (hybrids, cultivars and landraces) of eggplant related to yield traits in the Colombian Caribbean region, to quantify the genetic divergence among these genotypes and to indicate possible crosses. With the results of the genetic diversity and agronomic traits we intend to initiate a program of eggplant breeding in that region. A randomized block design with three replications was used. The analyzed variables were fruit length, number of fruits per plant, mean fruit weight, yield, fruit firmness and plant height. The data were submitted to variance analysis and the averages grouped by Scott-Knott test. A multivariate analysis was also performed using different methods of hierarchical clustering and canonical variables. There was high divergence among the studied genotypes even when considered within hybrids, cultivars and landraces, with highest variability among the cultivars and hybrids followed by the landraces. The UPGMA method was more reliable than Ward and Single Linkage methods since UPGMA presented greater value of Cophenetic Correlation Coefficient (CCC). Using pseudo-F and pseudo-t² criteria the maximum point was reached when four clusters were formed, being considered the ideal number of groups for the UPGMA. There was agreement among the groups formed for UPGMA analysis and canonic variables. Crosses between CC08 x CC02; CC08 x EU01 and CC08 x C016 may be recommended to start an eggplant breeding program aiming to improve yield and fruit firmness.
Solanum melongena; multivariate analysis; plant breeding; fruit firmness
