Genetic divergence studies in first clonal stage of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)

Abstract

The identification of diverse genotypes is an important consideration in sugarcane improvement. Mahalanobis’ D2 technique has been quite useful in determining the diversity in crop species. Knowledge on genetic divergence is therefore fundamental to identify and organize the available genetic resources aiming at the production of promising cultivars. In vegetatively propagated crops like sugarcane, development of improved genotypes with high heterotic expression for yield and quality characters is desired. The heterotic genotypes can be developed by utilization of diverse parents in hybridization. Proper exploitation of variability in a crop like sugarcane with a complex ploidy and a high level of heterozygosity is a complicated process. Breeding for higher cane yield and quality traits requires basic information on the extent of genetic variation in a population and its response to selection.