Vol. 9, Special Issue 12, Part L (2025)

An experiment was conducted at Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station (O.R.A.R.S.), Kayamkulam, Kerala (2023-2024) to study the salinity tolerance of ten tomato genotypes under three salinity levels (control, 35 M and 40 mM). The objective was to identify tomato genotypes capable of maintaining growth and yield under saline conditions and to assess variability that could be exploited for future breeding and screening programs. Significant genotype × salinity interactions were observed for the measured traits, including plant height, fruit length, fruit girth, fruits per plant, and yield. Plant height showed considerable variation, with Anagha exhibiting the tolerance under moderate salinity (74.51 cm at 35 mM). Reproductive performance was markedly affected by salinity. The highest fruit count occurred in Anagha under control conditions (29.17), whereas EC-620404 produced the lowest number of fruits per plant at 40 mM (17.53). The mean yield per plant declined progressively with rising salinity, decreasing from 731.89 g (control) to 689.45 g (35 mM) and 645.03 g (40 mM). Among the genotypes, Anagha under control had the highest production of 1103.80 g, whereas EC-638519 under 40 mM had the lowest yield of 396.13 g. Percent yield reduction increased from 5.80% at 35 mM to 11.87% at 40 mM, confirming the intensifying impact of salinity stress. Overall, Anagha and Manulakshmi recorded superior tolerance and productivity under saline conditions, highlighting their potential for cultivation in salt affected regions and for use in future salinity tolerance breeding programs.