Variation among pineapple half-sibs and selecting genitors based on potential genetic divergence

Knowledge about variation and relative importance of agronomic traits for genetic divergence studies can reveal useful information to guide the breeding programs. The objective this study was evaluate phenotypic variation, select pineapple half-sib seedlings based on fruit plant traits. 'Pérola' cultivar (female genitor) received a pollen mix as from cultivars 'MD-2', 'BRS Imperial' Vitória' (male genitors). Four hundred twenty-nine F1 individuals propagated seeds were evaluated under field conditions. Descriptive statistics, Singh's (1981) contribution, Tocher's cluster optimization methods distances matrix estimated. Coefficients ranged 9.89 % 63.79 %. Regarding total variance, grouped 52.69%, while accumulated 47.30%. These results demonstrated that contribute progeny discrimination none them should be discarded diversity. Among 12 heterotic clusters formed, group VII, IX VIII are recommended compose hybridization blocks evaluation cycles stability use per se. groups have broad potential, desirable traits, mainly regarding high means mass without crown (FMWC) upper than 4,000g soluble solids content (SSC) around 20-21°Brix, which used by IPA’s program.