An anomalous accession of L. pimpinellifolium from the Galapagos Islands.

Rick, C. M.

Seeds were obtained from a correspondent on Indefatigable Island of a wild tomato purported to be L. Cheesemanii. After experiencing a great deal of difficulty, it was finally possible to germinate a few seeds after scarification. The plants thereby produced do not correspond to either L. Cheesemanii or L. C. f. minor as ascertained by comparison with herbarium sheets, but to a form of L. pimpinellifolium previously collected on the same island. Although closest to the latter species it differs from it in the following respects: (1) production of a few large trichomes; (2) pale color of foliage; (3) heavy anthocyanin pigmentation of nodes and flower buds; (4) dull yellowish flesh color; (5) smaller size of parts, particularly seeds; (6) poor growth and very low fruit set under California field conditions. In respect to the last characteristic, the plant seems to be well adapted to the cool moist conditions of the winter greenhouse, which apparently approximates those of the fog belt in which it was found.

In tests of its crossing relations, this accession shows complete compatibility with L. esculentum and L. pimpinellifolium and no more affinities with the rest of the genus than either of these species shows. F1 hybrids with these two species are completely fertile. All available morphological and genetic information therefore indicates that this collection belongs in the red-fruited group, and, since it bears closer resemblance to L. pimpinellifolium it is provisionally classified in that species.

In cultures here it has developed symptoms of tobacco mosaic, but its reaction to tomato diseases in general has not been tested. Seeds are available for exchange.