Introduction of aromatic fragrance into cultivated tomato from the peruvianum complex

This study was performed to introduce the distinct aromatic fragrance of Lycopersicon peruvianum LA 1554 into the cultivated tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum. The strong breeding barriers existing between these two distantly related species were circumvented by the ovule selection and culture method. A large BC 1 F 1 population was developed and among 127 plants, 36 were self-compatible and yielded fruits. Fruits of some of these selected plants were found to be enriched with a sweet aromatic flavour. Sensory evaluation of the fruit aroma of these selected plants was performed by a panel of 12 members against one of the best consumer-rated Japanese commercial tomato cultivars. Momotaro'. Although extensive variation was observed in fruit-aroma in the BC 1 F 1 population, panel opinion on flavour-desirability' significantly favoured the BC 1 F 1 fruits of some selected plants over the cv. Momotaro'. Therefore, it can be concluded that the aromatic fragrance of a 'L. peruvianum' accession has successfully been introduced into the cultivated tomato gene pool.