Multi-Trait Phenotypic Selection of Musa spp. (AAA and AAB Genome Groups) for Yield and Nutritional Quality

Background and Objective: Musa spp. (banana, AAA and plantain, AAB) serves as a vital staple crop for food security and income in West Africa, yet it faces breeding challenges due to trait variability and sterility. This study characterized the agronomic, bioactive, mineral, and proximate traits of 10 Musa spp. at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) in Ibadan, Nigeria, to identify superior multi-trait genotypes. Materials and Methods: Field trials measured yield components (bunch weight, hands, fruit length), phenology, and suckers. Fruits underwent triplicate analyses for bioactive, mineral, colour, and proximate composition following the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) standard methods. All data were analyzed using the R statistical software. Results: The analysis of variance confirmed highly significant phenotypic differences (p<0.001) across traits. ITC1352 SH3764 achieved the highest bunch weight (23.40 kg) and fruit length (11.43 cm). The MOO9 and NHPN052 led to β-carotene (466.00, 452.00 μg/g) and total carotenoids. Correlations showed associations with the yield trait (bunch weight and mid-hand: r = 0.85) and with nutritional trade-offs (moisture vs. carbohydrates: r = -1.00). Principal component analysis explained 90% of total variation across five components, with PC1 and PC2 capturing 62% (PC1: carotenoids, fat, iron vs. moisture, vitamin C; PC2: yield traits vs. flavonoids, pH). Clustering analysis gave three groups: nutrient-rich (MOO9, NHPN052, NHPN054), high-yielding hybrids, and diverse landraces. Genotype by yield×trait analysis ranked ITC1352 SH3764 highest (SI = 1.47), ideal for yield and quality. Conclusion: Multivariate approaches revealed agronomic-nutritional performance, identifying ITC1352 SH3764, NHPN054, and ITC1350 SH3748 as elite parents for resilient, nutrient-dense banana and plantain breeding.