Phenotypic Characterization of a Diversity Panel of Tomato.

At the USDA, ARS Plant Genetic Resources Unit (PGRU) we have phenotypically characterized more than 2,000 accessions of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) for which data are publically available on the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN) (http://www.ars-grin.gov/npgs/searchgrin.html). To illustrate an example, we will present characterization data from a diversity panel that includes many weedy accessions from geographic centers of origin. Results include ‘minimal descriptors’ (highly heritable traits, e.g., plant growth type, canopy size, leaf type, inflorescences, fruit set, days to maturity, shape, color, weight, cracking, soluble solids), digital images, and estimates of fruit shape, size and color from the Tomato Analyzer software program (http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/vanderknaap/tomato_analyzer.htm). Our end-user community has indicated that images are highly valuable; subsequently we have increased our efforts to provide this type of data.