High-throughput field phenotyping (HTFP) has become an important approach for improving the efficiency and objectivity of phenotypic evaluation in modern plant breeding. Within the PHENO_MaizE project the practical application of UAV-based RGB phenotyping in temperate maize breeding under field conditions is investigated. The project integrates repeated drone imaging, extraction of image-derived traits, and predictive modeling in order to evaluate the potential of digital phenotyping for the selection of superior maize genotypes. Experimental material includes maize inbred lines and their corresponding testcrosses evaluated across multiple environments in Serbia. UAV surveys conducted during the growing season will enable monitoring of temporal crop development and extraction of traits such as plant height, canopy cover, vegetation indices, and growth dynamics. The research within the project will also assess the potential of phenomic prediction models for estimating important agronomic traits, including grain yield, flowering time, and grain moisture at harvest. Special emphasis is placed on developing a practical, cost-effective, and scalable HTFP framework adapted to medium-sized breeding programs. The expected outcomes may support wider implementation of digital phenotyping and data-driven selection strategies in maize breeding.
Hull-less barley (Hordeum vulgare L. var. nudum) is an underutilized form of barley that shows significant potential for broader use in human nutrition due to its exceptional nutritional value and beneficial health effects. This potential was the basis for research within the CROPDIVA project, funded by the Horizon Europe program. Despite its historical importance as a staple food, it currently occupies less than 2% of the total barley production area in Europe. The important agronomic, morphological and grain quality traits were investigated in order to determine their value for agriculture and the food industry. The study included 72 genotypes of winter hull-less barley obtained from the IPK genebank in Gatersleben (Germany), along with two control cultivars sown in 10 replications. The experiments were established during the 2023/24 and 2024/25 at the Rimski šančevi experimental station of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in Novi Sad using an augmented block design. This research focused on assessing phenotypic variation of following characteristics: biomass, thousand grain weight, harvest index, grain color, threshability, test weight and grain protein content. Among the tested genotypes, 67 belong to the six-rowed (6R) type, and 7 genotypes are two-rowed (2R) types. After harvest, the protein content of the seeds was determined by the combustion method according to the DUMAS procedure (AOAC 992.23, 1998). Data analysis employed BLUEs (Best Linear Unbiased Estimators) to correct for spatial variation across the 10 blocks. Descriptive statistics revealed substantial phenotypic variability with the highest coefficients of variation (CV) observed for biomass (27.8%) and thousand-grain weight (27.5%). Conversely, hectoliter mass remained highly stable (CV = 4.2%). Two-rowed genotypes achieved a statistically significantly higher biomass (2,445 g m- ²) and thousand grain weight (49.1 g) compared to six-rowed barley, where the biomass was 1,614 g m- ², and thousand grain weight was 30.0 g. In contrast, the average values of hectoliter mass in six-rowed forms (84.6 kg hL-1) and protein content (12.3%) were higher compared to two-rowed forms (79.2 kg hL-1; 10.3%). Only seven genotypes showed a lower degree of threshability, with some seeds retaining hulls after mechanical dehulling. Aleurone layer analysis identified a predominance of white color, while light blue, dark blue, purple, and black pigments were less frequent. Correlation analysis showed that the most pronounced positive correlation was found between biomass and thousand grain weight (0.56). A modarate correlation was detected between TGW and hectoliter weight (-0.47). Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed a high degree of phenotypic variability explaining 63.3% of the total phenotypic variability indicating mutual independence of traits related to protein content and yield components. These results confirm that the European collection of hull-less barley represents a valuable genetic resource suitable for use in breeding programs and improvement of cultivars intended for human consumption.
In a two-year period, the influence of the application of microbiological fertilizer and different cover crops on the moisture content of kernel and the popping volume in the ZPSC 611k popcorn hybrid was investigated. The experiment was conducted on the experimental field of the Maize Research Institute "Zemun Polje" (Serbia) and set up according to a split-plot design in 4 replications. The cover crops consisted of plant species: common vetch, winter oats, winter forage pea and winter forage kale, and two mixtures (common vetch and winter oats, winter forage pea and winter oats) were included in the experiment, as well as a variant with mulch and a control. Application of microbiological fertilizer and cover crops had a statistically significant effect on the kernel quality of the tested hybrid. The average values of moisture content in kernel ranged from 13.1% to 15.0%. The dominant influence on both traits was the interaction of year factor x microbiological fertilizer x cover crop, which indicates a strong synergistic effect of meteorological conditions and agrotechnical measures. The highest average values of popping volume were obtained in varieties with legumes and their mixtures, especially with the application of microbiological fertilizer, at an optimal moisture content of about 14%. The results show that the use of cover crops, especially legumes and their mixtures with cereals, along with the application of microbiological fertilizers, is an effective way to improve the technological quality of popcorn kernels in conditions of a moderate continental climate.
Under conditions of climate variability and heterogeneity of agro-ecological environments, assessment of genotype × environment (G×E) interaction constitutes a fundamental basis for the selection of wheat genotypes exhibiting both stable yield performance and strong adaptability across diverse environments. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to evaluate yield variability and G×E interactions among winter wheat genotypes grown across multiple locations in the Republic of Serbia. Multilocational field trials involving 25 wheat varieties were conducted over a single growing season at five locations. Results revealed statistically significant variability in grain yield attributable to genotype, location, and their interaction-with the location effect being the most pronounced. Application of the AMMI (Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction) model enabled identification of genotypes combining high yield potential with satisfactory stability. Visualization of results via a genotype-environment biplot facilitated interpretation of response patterns, thereby clarifying the nature and magnitude of genotype-specific adaptability across the tested environments. The highest mean yields were recorded for the newly released varieties NS Supernova (8.08 t ha-¹), NS Eudora (8.07 t ha-¹), and NS Rajna (7.80 t ha-¹); all three demonstrated robust adaptability and consistently high yields across multiple locations. In contrast, varieties such as NS Igra, NS Lavica, and NS Kimera yielded values close to the overall site-mean across most locations, indicating relatively uniform responsiveness and broad adaptability under variable agro-ecological conditions. Novi Sad and Pančevo emerged as locations with comparatively favorable agro-ecological conditions, where even varieties possessing only moderate yield potential achieved high absolute yields. Based on these findings, a set of promising genotypes was identified, characterized by a favorable combination of high and stable yield, and recommended for advancement into subsequent breeding stages and multi-year, multi-environment testing.
Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a widely cultivated vegetable whose growth and development are significantly modulated by light quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different LED light treatments during the seedling stage on pepper subsequent development and yield after transplanting into a greenhouse. Commercial sweet pepper variety Morava was used as the plant material. At the phenological stage of first true leaf formation, the plants were placed in closed plant growth chambers under four light treatments: multispectral white light-emitting diodes (W LEDs), monochromatic blue LEDs (B LEDs), red LEDs (R LEDs), and a mixed (50:50% ratio) red and blue LEDs (RB LEDs). The seedlings were cultivated for either 20 or 27 days under a 12/12 h (light/dark) photoperiod at a controlled temperature of 23 ± 2 °C. After 20 and 27-day exposure periods, five uniform seedlings per treatment were transplanted into larger plastic pots and transferred to a greenhouse, where they were grown under natural daylight for an additional 51 and 44 days, respectively. At the full maturity stage, the number of fruits and yield per plant, chlorophyll content, and total soluble sugar content were recorded. The results show that the number of pepper fruits per plant was significantly influenced by both the light treatment and its interaction with the duration of light exposure. In contrast, the fruit weight, total soluble sugar content, and chlorophyll content depended exclusively on the duration of exposure to the light treatments. A 27-day red light treatment applied at the first true leaf stage significantly increased fruit number and weight while proving statistically equivalent to other leading treatments in optimizing sugar and chlorophyll accumulation.
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is one of the world's major oilseed crops, and the growing demand for plant-based protein sources has renewed interest in its seed proteins for both food and feed applications. This study evaluated the variability of protein content in 100 oil-type sunflower genotypes to identify promising candidates for breeding programs focused on enhanced nutritional quality. Protein content exhibited considerable variation, ranging from 15.08 to 27.37%, mean 20.25%; CV = 11.27%), indicating substantial genetic diversity. K-means cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into four distinct clusters, representing low-, moderate-, elevatedand high-protein groups. Cluster 4 included 19 genotypes with the highest mean protein content (23.75%), with genotype 100 (Oliva) showing the maximum value (27.37%), highlighting its potential as a superior donor in breeding for high-protein oil-type cultivars. These findings demonstrate strong genetic potential for improving protein content in sunflower and provide valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at developing nutritionally enhanced, high-protein hybrids with improved applicability in food and feed production.
The study evaluated the willingness of rice farmers in Ebonyi State to pay for improved rice seed varieties. It ascertained the improved rice seed varieties available to the farmers, profiled their sources of information, determined their willingness to pay for improved seed varieties and analyzed the factors influencing their willingness to pay. Multistage sampling procedure was used in selecting 120 respondents for the study. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with inferential and descriptive statistics. Results show that research institutes (74.19%) and mass media (65.00%) were the major sources of information among respondents. Many varieties of improved rice seeds were available to farmers including FARO 44 (71.66%), R8 (68.33%), FARO 52 (65.83%) and Mass 11(56.67%). Rice farmers are willing to pay for improved rice seed varieties at subsidized rates (𝑥̅= 3.6), and access to agricultural loans (𝑥̅= 3.1) and insurance policies (𝑥̅= 3.5). Yield expectation (β=3.523), income from rice farms (β=5.527), age (β= 8.374), and extension contacts (β=2.361) positively influenced rice farmers' willingness to pay for improved rice seeds. The study recommends that government and agricultural development agencies should provide subsidies, insurance policies and agricultural loans to boost farmers' willingness to pay for improved seed varieties.
Modern agriculture, which promotes the development of new varieties with a narrow genetic base and relies on controlled seed production, has caused a significant loss of farmland biodiversity. The “Women Netting for Seed Treasure Revival (NEST)” initiative aims to promote the sustainable cultivation of local old varieties through a participatory citizen science approach. Its key activities include inventorying traditional varieties grown on farms and training farmers in seed collecting, handling, and conservation. By fostering active collaboration among scientists, volunteers, and farmers, the initiative aims to strengthen the role of women in agriculture. Preserving their traditional knowledge—as crucial for mitigating farmland biodiversity loss and addressing climate change—opens new avenues for innovative scientific approaches. Through participatory citizen science, the project aims to bridge the gap between scientists and local communities, facilitating the conservation and exchange of traditional old varieties seeds, safeguarding farmland biodiversity, and ensuring food security
Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), as one of the most important vegetable species, requires continuous work on the selection of new varieties and hybrids, all with the aim of meeting the various nutritional needs of people. In recent years, the emphasis has increasingly been placed on high-quality and large fruits, with thick pericarp and high yield for industrial processing. For this reason, the goal of our research was to create a new variety of pepper with the required properties. By crossing selected parental lines, after a multi-year selection process, using the pedigree method, Slađina čarolija was created, with very large and attractive fruits, thick pericarp, pronounced red color. It is a medium-late variety, with determinate growth and a large habit. It forms from 5 to 10 fruits per plant (depending on the cultivation method), which are very large (from 150 g to over 300 g), flattened on both sides, with a thick pericarp (over 6 mm). When technologically ripe, the fruits are dark green, and when fully ripe, they are dark red. In full agricultural technology, yields of over 80 t ha -1 can be achieved in an open field. The variety is recognized by the Decision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia under No. 320-04-5183/2/2023-11 from June 12, 2025.
The challenges of food security and climate change require the development of sustainable methods in agriculture, such as biological seed treatment. This research examines the effect of inoculation of squash seeds (Cucurbita pepo L., genotype Fina) with a mixture of strains of Bacillus sp. on the morphological characteristics of seedlings. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse of the Institute for Vegetable Crops Smederevska Palanka during April-May 2024. The seeds were inoculated before sowing, a control (seeds treated with distilled water) was also included. The properties of plant height, steam diameter, width and length of the first true leaf, mass of the above-ground part of the plant and root mass were analyzed. The results show a statistically highly significant effect of the treatment on plant height (17.3 cm in the treatment versus 12.8 cm in the control), while no statistical significance was established for the other traits, but higher values were measured in seedlings of inoculated seeds. Positive correlations were found between the plant height and the mass of the above-ground part of the plant (r=0.684**), as well as between the mass of the above-ground part of the plant and the width of the first true leaf (r=0.546*). These results indicate the potential of biological treatment to improve the growth of squash seedlings, which is a significant contribution to sustainable production with reduced use of chemical agents.
The phenotyping of desirable root and shoot traits is easier at early stages of development and can reveal drought-tolerance potential. A total of 11 genotypes from the collection of 101 bread wheat genotypes, with desirable traits in terms of increased tolerance to drought, were chosen for parents (P) and eight crosses were performed. The objective of this research was to determine heterotic root and shoot traits among nine traits evaluated in 19 bread wheat genotypes from P and F1 generations at the seedling stage, grown in hydroponic cultivation under PEG-induced drought stress and under control conditions. These two generations differed the most in mean values of distance to the first branch on the primary root and in angle of seminal roots, under control conditions, and in mean values of primary root length (PRL), number of seminal roots (NSR), stem length (SL), under induced drought stress. The F1 progeny was heterotic for PRL, NSR, SL, and these traits could have contributed to its greater tolerance to drought.
Seed germination is a complex biological process influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. This paper analyzes the impact of key environmental factors: temperature, water availability, light, pH value, and storage conditions on seed germination, with a particular focus on field crops. Temperature plays a crucial role in enzymatic activity and metabolic processes, with both excessively high and low temperatures negatively affecting germination due to oxidative stress and enzyme inhibition. Water availability is essential for seed rehydration and metabolic activation, while excess moisture can lead to anaerobic conditions that hinder germination. Light influences germination through photoreceptors that regulate hormonal balance, affecting dormancy and growth initiation. Soil pH affects nutrient availability and enzyme activity, with extreme pH levels inhibiting seed metabolism. Finally, storage conditions determine seed viability over time, with high humidity and temperature, accelerating biochemical degradation. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing seed germination and improving agricultural productivity, particularly in the context of climate change.
The study evaluated access to certified seeds among farming households in Imo State. One hundred and eighty respondents were selected for the study through a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected on the availability, sources and access to certified rice seeds as well as the challenges of accessing certified rice seeds using a structured questionnaire and analysed with frequency counts, percentages and regression model. The results show that 57.4% of the respondents agreed that certified rice seeds were available to them and 79.4% sourced their seeds from local markets. Major challenges of accessing certified rice seeds indicated by the respondents include high cost of seeds (87.8%), lack of reliable certified seed (76.3%) and distance to source of purchase of certified seeds (44.4%). Most (62.6%) of the respondents have access to only one variety of certified rice seeds. The determinants of certified rice seeds access are respondents' age (r = 0.03; p < 0.05), household size (r = 0.04; p < 0.05), and contact with extension agents (r = 0.03; p < 0.05). The study concluded that farmers source their rice seeds from informal sources and did not have adequate access to certified seeds. Certified seeds companies should increase their sale point to facilitate farming households' access to reliable certified rice seeds at subsidized rates.
Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most important cereals in the world, and in Serbia it ranks third in terms of cultivated area, after corn and wheat. However, the production of spring barley faces challenges caused by climate change, which have a negative impact on grain yield and grain quality. Therefore, the aim of this research was to examine the influence of genotype, growing season and their interactions on the productive traits of spring two-row barley. The research was conducted in Kragujevac during 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, where the experiment was set up using the method of random assignment in four replications. As plant material, three two-row spring barley genotypes were used: Jadran, Scarlett and L-1/6-95. The results of the research show that the factor of growing season had a dominant effect in the expression of the number of grains per spike, number of grains per m², thousand grain weight, and grain yield, with the largest share in the variation of the number of grains per m² (77% of the treatment sum of squares), while it did not significantly affect the expression of grain weight per spike, which was mostly influenced by the genotype (62.5% of the treatment sum of squares). In the second season (2023), which was characterized by lower temperatures and evenly distributed rainfall, higher values of number of grains per spike (by 12.95%), number of grains per m² (by 55, 21%), grain weight per spike (by 11.82%), and grain yield (by 46.36%) compared to the first season (2022). However, the higher amount of precipitation during the grain filling phase in 2023 season had a negative impact on the thousand grain weight, which was 5.96% less compared to 2022. These results indicate that excessive rainfall at the grain filling stage can negatively affect grain quality. Also, the factor of genotype had a significant influence on the variation of all traits, except for the number of grains per spike. Genotype Scarlett stood out as the most productive, with the highest average values of number of grains per spike (24.4), number of grains per m² (7821), thousand grain weight (47.3 g), grain weight per spike (1.25 g), and grain yield (3.64 t ha-1). On the other hand, genotype L-1/6-95 had slightly lower values of all these traits, while genotype Jadran had the lowest values in all parameters (except thousand grain weight). These results confirm that genotypes have a significant impact on productive traits, where the genotype Scarlett proved to be the most suitable for production in our agroecological conditions. The high correlation coefficient between grain yield and the number of grains per m² (0.988) confirms that the number of grains per m² is a key trait for achieving a high grain yield of two-row spring barley. On the other hand, a highly significant negative correlation was obtained between the number of grains per m² and the thousand grain weight (-0.500), which is the result of the influence of excessive rainfall in June on grain filling, which did not negatively affect the number of grains. Nevertheless, a high value of the thousand grain weight was found in all genotypes, which makes them suitable for use in the brewing industry. Knowing the influence of genotype and the growing season and their interactions emphasizes the need to adapt agrotechnical practices, to choose appropriate genotypes to achieve high yield and high grain quality.
Achieving high and stable wheat yields is determined by the application of mineral fertilizers, particularly nitrogen fertilizers. Therefore, optimizing nitrogen usage is essential for reducing production costs and minimizing adverse environmental impacts. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two nitrogen fertilization levels on wheat grain yield across 25 varieties developed between 1930 and 2015, during a single growing season (2022/23). The research was conducted at the experimental field of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Rimski Šančevi. The results showed that variety had the greatest influence on the yield variability, while the effect of fertilization accounted for approximately one-third of the total variation. The interaction between these two factors was weakly expressed. The overall mean yield for the entire experiment was 8,673 kg ha-1. On average, the yield of the examined varieties ranged from 6,106 kg ha-1 (Banatka) to 10,086 kg ha-1 (NS 40S), with increased nitrogen levels leading to improved yields, especially in modern wheat varieties. A positive correlation was observed between wheat grain yield and the year of variety recognition. Under nitrogen fertilization conditions, a yield increase of 46.1 kg ha-1 per year was recorded, while the increase in the control variant was only 33.4 kg ha-1.
The production and processing of commercial seeds place significant emphasis on seed quality, with germination rates being a critical determinant of market performance. A major challenge in corn seed production and processing is maintaining optimal storage conditions to preserve germination and vigor over time. In the Republic of Serbia, certified corn seeds must adhere to specific germination standards as outlined by regulatory guidelines. Given that germination rates decline during storage, routine germination testing at accredited laboratories is imperative. The aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in total germination and vigor of certified hybrid corn seed over a five-year period. Annual germination tests were conducted from 2018 to 2022 for three commercial maize hybrids (ZP 704, ZP 873, and ZP 600). The standard "between the paper" germination test was utilized, and results for each hybrid were reported as averages from the tested lots. Initial testing conducted in 2018 revealed the highest average values for total germination and vigor across three hybrids: ZP 704 (98.8%/98.8%), ZP 873 (100%/100%), and ZP 600 (98.3%/98.3%). By 2020, a slight decrease in both germination and vigor was observed for all hybrids, with equal values for germination energy and total germination. By the end of the study in 2022, the average total germination for all hybrids remained above 90%, specifically ZP 704 (93.7%), ZP 873 (94%), and ZP 600 (96%). Notably, while the vigor of hybrids ZP 704 (92.7%) and ZP 873 (88%) was lower than their total germination rates, hybrid ZP 600 demonstrated consistent results, with both total germination and vigor at 96%. The findings indicate that seed storage conditions were in accordance with regulations, as evidenced by acceptable overall germination rates for all hybrids at the end of the test period.
Cold test (CT) is the oldest vigour test, which is widely used for testing maize seed. CT has not been validated and it is not included in the ISTA Rules, due to the variations in the soil used as a substrate and differences in test procedures. The objective of this study was to compare two CT procedures by evaluation the seed vigour of 12 maize seed lots. Soil was used in both cases with differences in chilling temperature (10 °C in standard and 7.5 °C in severe CT). Also duration of low temperatures was prolonged from 7 (standard CT) to 10 days (severe CT). Germination at optimal conditions were the same (7 days at 20<=>30°C). Statistical analysis showed that seed lots differed significantly in seed vigour. The application of severe CT created larger differences between lots, but they maintained similar rank positions in both CT procedures, leading to a very high rank correlation. Results of this research show that standard CT is a good indicator of maize seed vigour, but severe CT is useful for clearer differentiation of maize seed lots.
This experimental trial was conducted during the 2022/23 growing season in the Bresje village area near Velika Plana, on anthropogenized soil, using a randomized block design with four replications. Sowing was performed in two date: the first in mid-May and the second in mid-July. Three sweet corn hybrids (Enterprise F1 , Union F1 , and Sweet Nugget F1 ) were evaluated. Two irrigation norms were applied: I - full irrigation (100%), II - 50% of full irrigation, and a control treatment under natural moisture conditions. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of sowing date, irrigation, and different sweet corn hybrids on total ear weight, kernel weight and shelling percentage. The best results were achieved by the hybrid Enterprise in the second sowing period, with significantly higher values than in the first period (total ear weight 392.47 g and kernel weight 272.13 g) under full irrigation, except for the shelling percentage, where the highest shelling percentage was observed in the 50% irrigation treatment at 70.44%. The control variants in both sowing periods across all three hybrids showed the lowest values for all parameters. Values shelling percentage did not significantly differ between sowing dates for any hybrid. Based on these findings, the hybrid Enterprise is an excellent choice for sweet corn cultivation in late sowing dates under full irrigation.
The study ascertained maize farmers' awareness and perception of genetically modified crops in Abia State, Nigeria. One hundred and eighty-four respondents were selected for the survey using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analysed with percentages, means and regression analysis. Majority (67.4%) of the farmers are not aware of genetically modified maize crops and the crops are not in adequate supply (x̄=1.5). Maize farmers perception of GMO crops is not very favourble (x̄=2.4). Among the perceived constraints in cultivating these crops were the difficulty of selling them in the market (x̄=3.4), threat of the negative influence of climate change on the expected yield (x̄=3.2), and the likelihood that these crops may require much inputs, like fertilizer and herbicides (x̄=2.8). Age (b=1.023), previous experience with improved crop varieties (b=2.112) and internet access (b=2.317) had a positive influence on farmers' perception but the number of household members with a tertiary school degree (b=-0.721) had a negative influence. More awareness of genetically modified maize crops should be created to enable farmers make informed decisions in line with their perception of the crops. Extension services should be adequately funded to achieve this.
Breeding programs for developing new genotypes emphasize earliness, fruit quality, yield potential, resistance to economically significant diseases, tolerance to abiotic stress, and plant morphology. Hybrids offer numerous advantages over varieties, including higher yields, fruit uniformity, resistance to plant pathogens, and the manifestation of heterosis. These are the primary reasons for initiating research on hybrid combinations of hot peppers. This study aimed to develop a hybrid hot pepper capable of meeting market demands. Seven experimental pepper hybrids were created by crossing the ms line HM5 (nuclear male sterility) as the female parent with seven pure lines (LHP 1-7) as the male parents, producing seeds of hybrid combinations. In 2023, a randomized block design experiment with three replications of 40 plants each was conducted in a greenhouse at the Institute for Vegetable Crops Smederevska Palanka. Harvesting was performed at the technological maturity stage. The most important morphological fruit traits and dry matter content (DMC) were analyzed on 10 fruits (kapya type) from each hybrid combination. The results revealed that hybrid combinations had a statistically significant impact on parameters such as fruit weight, length, width, pericarp thickness and DMC. The hybrid HM5xLHP6 showed the highest fruit weight (119.70 g), HM5xLHP4 exhibited the longest fruit (18.26 cm), while HM5xLHP1 and HM5xLHP3 demonstrated the largest fruit width (6.02 cm) and pericarp thickness (5.2 mm) respectively. High DMC values were recorded for HM5xLHP7 and HM5xLHP5 (10.5% and 9.40%). The number of fruits per plant (11.40-16.80) and the number of chambers (2) were consistent across hybrids, with no statistically significant differences observed. By comparing market-available varieties with hybrids, which are still limited in number, the results of this study highlight the superiority of hybrids for cultivation in greenhouse. Hybrids demonstrated justified economic effects for both fresh consumption and industrial processing.
