Genetic diversity of coconut (cocos nucifera l.) in barisal region

Abstract

Abstract : Nineteen genotypes of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) of different geographic origins were evaluated for genetic divergence at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Rahmatpur, Barisal during June 2008 to May 2009. Genetic divergences among 19 genotypes were estimated using D2 and principal component analysis. All the genotypes were grouped into five clusters. The inter-cluster distances were larger than the intra- cluster distances suggesting wider genetic diversity among the genotypes of different groups. The intra-cluster values were lower in all the clusters. Cluster II and V were the largest consisting of five genotypes and cluster 1 was the smallest with two genotypes. Distribution pattern of the genotypes in clusters indicated geographical distribution, and genetic divergence did not follow the same trend. The highest inter genotypic distance was observed between the genotypes G08 and G12. The inter-cluster distance was the maximum between the clusters I and V. Girth at 50 cm, girth at 20 cm, number of nuts per palm, fruit weight and kernel weight had the highest contribution towards genetic divergence. The intra cluster distance revealed that the genotypes within the same cluster were closely related. Cluster I had the highest fruit weight, nut weight, husk weight, water weight, shell weight, kernel weight and kernel thickness. Utilization of available information on coconut variability would be helpful to improve the fruit and nut qualities through hybridization and selection.