Evaluating Eggplant Collection Samples and Selecting Primary Donors Based on Physiological Indicators

Abstract

The article presents the findings of a biomorphological evaluation conducted between 2016 and 2018, focusing on 105 eggplant collection samples sourced from different geographical origins on the Absheron Peninsula in the Republic of Azerbaijan. Additionally, 59 of these samples underwent evaluation based on physiological indicators. The research categorized the eggplant samples into three groups based on their ripening time: mid- season (81-100 days) - 24.9%, mid-late-season (101-120 days) - 56.2%, and late-season (121-148 days) - 21.9%. Specific eggplant varieties were identified for each group. Group I (81-90 days) included representatives 140/A, 69/B, 141, 142, 152, and 162, while Group II (101-102 days) comprised samples 137, 140/B, 149/A, 149, 149-199, 213, 232, 239, 242, and 243. Group III (121-124 days) consisted of varieties exhibiting late-ripening characteristics. Some varieties within the collection showed variations in leaf area, photosynthetic potential, chlorophyll content in leaves, absolute leaf surface density, total wet and dry biomass. These characteristics make them valuable primary candidates for future breeding efforts, targeting enhanced productivity and adaptability. The study also suggested an optimal model for photosynthetic indicators to achieve high eggplant yields (ranging from 290 to 800 q/ha).