Evaluating Wild Germplasm Introgression into Autotetraploid Blueberry

Wild germplasm can be classified as the raw material essential for crop improvement. Introgression of wild is normally used in breeding to increase quality or resilience evolving biotic and abiotic threats. Here, we explore potential introgressing Vaccinium elliottii into commercial blueberry germplasm. a diploid species endemic southeastern United States that possesses highly desirable economically important traits such as: short bloom ripe period, adaptation upland sandy soils, disease resistance, firmness, pleasant flavor. To examine hybridization, evaluated populations interspecific hybrids across multiple stages (i.e., F1, F2, backcrosses) two seasons. We our extensive pedigree data generate values pre-breeding hybrid populations. Hybrid performance was considering fitness plant vigor height) addition evaluating six fruit-quality marketable-related size, acidity, soluble solids, weight, yield). Overall, F2 backcrosses rapidly achieved market thresholds, presenting not significantly different from Our results confirmed exploiting high genetic variability contained V. hybridization. Additionally, developed resources further utilized process, advancing selections fruit environmental adaptation.