Yield Assessment and Responsiveness of Shallot ( Allium cepa ascalonicum L.) Landraces to Storability Relevant Traits in a Controlled Environment in Mali

Abstract

Shallots ( Allium cepa ascalonicum L.) are an important crop primarily due to their likely culinary and economic value. However, its production comes with specific challenges. In addition, effective post-harvest management is critical to ensure the quality and availability of shallot bulbs for extended periods. This study assessed the yield performance and storability relevant traits of five shallot cultivars (Saboula Jaba, Espagne Jaba, Daou Jaba, Tata Jaba, and N’galamandjan Jaba) under controlled storage conditions. Field experiments were conducted in 2021 to evaluate growth and yield in terms of bulb quantity, size, and weight. Storability traits such as firmness, weight loss, and Total Soluble Solids (TSS) were also measured for each entry. The five ecotypes of shallots were evaluated on-station with a total rainfall of 810 mm in 2021. The results revealed statistically significant variations (p > 0.01) in storability traits and yield among the tested entries. Furthermore, the weight loss of stored bulbs varied, indicating genetic differences among the cultivars that can influence their moisture retention abilities, leading to differences in weight loss rates. Indeed, Daou jaba showed less weight loss and superior firmness. The top highest-ranking entry for yield was shown by N’galamandjan jaba with 40 T/ha, followed by Saboula jaba with 39 T/ha. These highest productivity entries also showed significantly higher bulb quantity and individual bulb size. While there was a significant correlation between weight loss and firmness, a correlation between weight loss and TSS was also observed. The weight loss and firmness of N’galamandjan jaba were significantly correlated (r = 0.52) on the one hand, and on the other hand, the weight loss and visual quality of Espagne Jaba were highly and significantly correlated (r = 0.69). N’galamandjan Jaba and Saboula Jaba can be used to improve the yield and the storability relevant traits and prevent post-harvest losses.