Tensile strength and microscopy analysis of abaca (Musa textilis Nee) fibers from bunchy top virus-resistant and susceptible traditional varieties

Fiber weight and breaking load were analyzed to evaluate the tensile strength of abaca varieties that are susceptible (Tinawagang Pula, Pisgani 1, Kaunayan, Niluluban, Nilaguing, Lagonoyom Itom, Lagunoyon, Yoga, Abuab TC, Bulaoluno, Inilabo, Parang, Abuab Rapo, M-82, Lausigan Red, Bagwisan, Tinawagang Puti, Natural Tobaco, Tarotagan Con, and Minononga) and resistant (BC sub 2-7, BC sub 2-10, BC sub 2-19, BC sub 2-31, BC sub 2-61, BC sub 2-67, BC sub 2-73, PSUX, PSUX1, PSUXX, PSUNo.2, PSUNo.3, MI-NC, Nam 10, St. Vincent, Igit, Puti, Laylay, Canton, and Abuab Labo) to ABTV. Ideally, fiber weight and breaking load have a negative linear relationship. However, in the experiment, weak and moderate positive relationships were found between the fiber weight and breaking load in the resistant and susceptible groups. Consistent negative relationships were also detected between the fiber weight and tensile strength in both groups. The increase in the tensile strength means a decrease in the fiber weight. Based on the comparisons, the susceptible group had higher fiber weight, breaking load, and tensile strength than the resistant group. In terms of the accessions, the resistant varieties had lower breaking load and tensile strength, which can be related to their lower mean pore area and higher porosity. Conversely, the susceptible varieties had higher breaking load, tensile strength, and mean pore area but lower porosity. Accordingly, a moderate positive relationship was observed between the mean pore area and tensile strength, while a weak negative relationship was observed between porosity and tensile strength. Replication on each leaf sheath position should be conducted for better evaluation of tensile strength between the resistant and susceptible groups. This method can provide relevant data that represent the best phenotype of the abaca varieties. Moreover, the number of samples should be increased to provide a better estimate of the true potential of these abaca varieties. Based on the microscopy analysis of the abaca fibers, fiber strength is affected not only by one fiber characteristic. Further evaluation must therefore be done in the future to investigate other factors.