In this work we evaluated the inbreeding depression on immature fruit yield with successive generations of self-pollination (S0, S1, S2, S3; S4 and S5), in a cucumber population 'caipira' type obtained by crossing Safira x Hatem hybrids. The experimental design was of randomized blocks, seven treatments (different generations of self pollination: S0 to S5 and the hybrid Safira), six replicates and five plants per plot. The characteristic number and weight of fruits, total and commercial, percentage of commercial fruits and fruits weight were evaluated. The averages were compared by the Tukey test (5%) and the evaluation of the inbreeding depression was done through regression analysis. The populations S0 and S1 were similar or superiors to 'Safira' in relation to the number of total fruits, total weight per plant and commercial weight per plant demonstrating the potential of this population to obtain a new cultivar or hybrid of the 'caipira' type. Reduction in fruit production (total and commercial) was observed in the S2 population and also in the subsequent generations of selfings due to a possible vigor loss.
Cucumis sativus; inbreeding; yield
