Genotype selection from the segregating BC3 population of Passiflora spp. for fruit production and quality using the REML/BLUP methodology

Passion fruit is important due to its high yield and economic relevance, but its production is limited by the fruit woodiness disease, caused by the CABMV virus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and quality of fruits of BC ₃ passion fruit genotypes using the REML/BLUP methodology. The experiment was conducted in randomized blocks, with six replicates and five full-sib families, in addition to the parents P. setacea and UENF Rio Dourado ( P. edulis ). The following traits were evaluated: fruit production per plant, number of fruits, average fruit weight, fruit weight (FW), pulp weight (PW), pulp yield (PY), longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, peel thickness, and soluble solids content. Analysis of deviance, genetic parameter estimation, and genotype selection were performed, revealing significant differences between genotypes. Heritability ranged from 0.17 to 0.81, with emphasis on FW and PY, which showed high selection potential. Progeny analysis indicated greater efficiency in selection by families, with heritability of 0.99 for FW and PW. Selection accuracy was high (> 0.94), ensuring reliable results. Genotypes 489 and 341 (BC ₃ family 293) showed gains of 68.4% and 68.3% in production, respectively. Selection of genotypes 083 and 293 (BC ₃ family 355) resulted in improvements in fruit quality. The results show significant genetic gains, highlighting the potential of mixed models and interspecific crosses in passion fruit breeding.