Genetic Correlation between Agronomically Important Traits in Yellow Passion Fruit

Breeding programs have sought to determine the minimum period of genotype evaluation, which is a long term-process. The objective of this work was to determine the association between qualitative traits of yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) and relate maturity to other characteristics. To carry out this work, 113 families of full-sibs and half-sibs were planted in Vicosa (MG), Brazil, in a randomized block experimental design arranged in sets (treatment groups). The association between the analyzed characteristics was studied using path analysis and canonical correlation techniques. It was found that lower-yielding but larger-fruit bearing genotypes of passion fruit plant also require more days until reaching anthesis. Round-shaped fruits are linked to higher contents of total soluble solids. More intense pulp color also indicates higher contents of total soluble solids. The riper the fruit, the more intensely orange is the color of the pulp. The ratio between the levels of total soluble solids and total titrimetric acidity was the main determinant of pulp color for passion fruit.