Variability and genetic diversity in exotic germplasm of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)

Abstract

Seventy three exotic collections of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) germplasm were evaluated for 10 yield and quality characters. Eight out of ten characters showed high variability. Following nonhierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis all the 73 genotypes were grouped into six clusters with variable number of genotypes. Accessions of heterogenous origin or place of release often grouped together in the same cluster, suggesting some degree of ancestral relationship between the genotypes. On the basis of the data on genetic divergence and the mean performance of yield and other traits seven diverse and superior genotypes were selected for use in breeding.