Genetic divergence analysis in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.)

Abstract

Twenty five genotypes of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications at the vegetable farm, College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Andhra Pradesh, India during late kharif (August 2017 to December 2017) for assessment of genetic diversity based on 29 morphological traits. Cluster analysis revealed distinct clustering pattern and grouping of genotypes in to six clusters. Cluster II was the largest (7 genotypes) followed by cluster I and III (5 genotypes) followed by cluster IV (3 genotypes), while cluster VI consisted of only one genotype. Intra cluster D2 values ranged from 0.00 (cluster VI) to 1980.14 (cluster II) while, intercluster D2 values ranged from 2286.05 (cluster I and II) to 17401 (cluster VI and V). Cluster V and VI were extremely diverse from the rest of the clusters. Hence the genotypes falling in these clusters being genetically more divergent, can be used in hybridization programme.