Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Sugarcane Germplasm Based on Physiological and Agronomic Traits

Abstract

Germplasm evaluation plays an important role regarded as a major step towards the achievement of sugarcane breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of sugarcane based on physiological traits and agronomic traits. The sugarcane germplasm 83 clones were evaluated and identified. The experiment design was used randomized complete block design with two replications. The plot was grown in 2 rows, 5 meters long and 1.5 meters spacing between rows. The experiment was conducted at the experimental research and development station, Mitr Phol Company, Nong Ruea District. Khon Kaen province during January 2014 to January 2015. Data were collected for morphological traits at 3, 6 and 9 months including chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (SCMR). The agronomic traits were recorded at 12 months including cane yield, stalk length, single stalk weight, stalk diameter, number of stalk per stool and brix value were recorded at 10, 11 and 12 months. The results indicated that, the highest chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) at 3, 6 and 9 months were Co1148, M147/158, Phil54-52 and M93/48 and the highest SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 3, 6 and 9 months were MPT04-55, MPT08-191, C87-51 and H59-3775. The genotype had the highest cane yield and single stalk weigh were CP75-324 and CP76-340. In yield component, stalk length and stalk diameter were Nco293 and K92-80, number of stalk per stool were DB7160 and CP65-350. The genotype with the highest brix value at 10, 11 and 12 months were CAC57-13, MPT04-55, LF63-2705 and Mossman. Evaluation genetic diversity of sugarcane germplasm based on morphological traits and agronomic traits, which 83 clones of sugarcane could be grouped into nine clusters. From this study, the data can be used as a basis for sugarcane breeding to improve yields and sugar content of sugarcanes in the future.