Biplot analysis of diallel data in Iranian landrace cantaloupe (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis)

Knowledge of structure and genetic control of traits may facilitate choose the best method of breeding and breeding programs will ultimately succeed. A complete diallel cross design was used to investigate genetic controls of three traits of yield, early maturity and total soluble solids for seven endemic Iranian cantaloupe. Results indicated that the Dastjerdi parent showed high and significant general combining ability for early maturity in each year (-3.97 and -3.78), then the additive gene effects have an important role in the control of this trait. Therefore this parent can use in breeding programs to produce early cultivars. Savei and Magasi parents for total soluble solids had highest general combining ability and can be considered to produce varieties with high sugar. The hybrids of Shahabadi × Rishbaba and Rishbaba × Tiltorogh can be considered to produce cultivars with high yield. Furthermore, Savei × (Shahabadi or Tiltorogh or Dastjerdi) and Magasi × (Savei or Rishbaba or Magasi) were considered as appropriate pairs to produce hybrids with high total soluble solids. Results showed the selection method can be effective for the traits of early maturity and total soluble solids, and production of hybrid can be useful for yield.