Phenotypic Variability in the Induction of Alpha Acids in Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in Brazil

Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) is a key ingredient in beer, with great significance for the Brazilian industry. The economically viable production of hops in Brazil depends on the genetic variability available to be used in the selection and development of high-as performance photo-neutral cultivars and their interaction with the environment. The objective of this research was to evaluate the phenotypic variability of alpha-effective character in relation to the environmental variation in different Brazilian regions. Alpha-acids tests were performed through the American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC-HOPS 6. B-Conductometric titration methodology). Phenotypic variation assessment showed that 30% of the variation occurred among clones, while 47% was attributed to the environmental components of cultivation. The repeatability coefficient (t) was below 0.25, demonstrating that interaction between genotype and environment inflicted on alpha-acid levels. Results showed variability in the alpha-acid contents depending on the hops growing regions. According to the results, clones 9 (8.22%), 26 (12.95%) and 27 (9.94%) added the highest levels of alpha-acids. Therefore, there is variability available for the genetic improvement of the culture in Brazil and its effects must be evaluated in each microclimate of cultivation.