Use of cluster analysis for grouping and evaluation of landrace populations and foreign synthetic maize lines

Résumé fourni par la source

This study applies statistical methods to analyze the morphological and genetic variability of 20 landrace and 20 foreign synthetic maize lines (Zea mays L.). Using hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward's method, Euclidean distance), four main clusters were identified, reflecting differences in productivity, adaptability, and morphological characteristics. The evaluation of the tested landrace populations and foreign synthetics was based on the following biometric indicators: ear length (cm), number of rows per ear, number of kernels per row, kernel length (mm), 1000-kernel weight (g), total plant height (cm), height to tassel (cm), ear leaf length (cm), ear leaf width (cm), height to main ear (cm), number of leaves above the upper ear, number of ears per plant, and hectoliter mass (kg/l). The mathematical approach to grouping the lines allows for the identification of differences between them, highlighting valuable traits, and forming clusters based on their degree of similarity. The landraces are grouped into two clusters: compact and stress-resistant varieties and high-yielding adaptive lines, while the foreign lines are also divided into two subgroups: high-protein hybrids and intensive productive varieties.

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