Agronomic evaluation of some progenies resulting from crosses between double self-fertilised genitors of Deli and La Mé origins used in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) seed production in Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Progeny tests carried out between self-fertilised double genitors (DA 115 D AF AF and LM 2 T AF AF) used in seed production in the C 1001 F category were set up in Côte d'Ivoire in 2005, in order to identify crosses producing good oil yields and capable of adapting to current climatic conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the agronomic values and growth rate of palm height of these progenies compared with two first-cycle controls, LM 2 T x DA 10 D and LM 2 T x DA 115. Their susceptibility to Fusarium wilt figurewas also assessed. The results of these tests showed a low bunch yield of around 99% on the one hand, and a 115% increase in oil yield compared with the first cycle on the other. In addition, two progenies, LM 25759 and LM 25753, performed exceptionally well, with oil yields of 125% and 127% respectively and a 97% reduction in palm height growth rate compared with the first cycle. These two progenies were also tolerant to Fusarium wilt with Fusarium index of 40 and 79 respectively.