Characterization and studies of genetic diversity of sweet potato from Paraguay

Abstract

• The objective of this work was to characterize the genotypes of a collection and obtain preliminary data on the genetic diversity of sweet potatoes, identifying those most promising for genetic improvement programs. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with 26 treatments and three replications. The variables measured total productivity, commercial and non-commercial root yield (t ha^-1), number of roots per plant, biomass, root shape and root color. The estimation of genetic diversity was obtained by the similar mean dissimilarity measure (DMM). In the delimitation group the UPGMA and, as a measure of proximity distances, the Euclidian Quadratic dissimilarity measure were used. The determination of the number of clusters was by the Mojena Criterion. The collection was grouped into seven clusters. The highest number of accessions was grouped in cluster III, with nine accessions, cluster II with six accessions, cluster IV, with six accessions, cluster VII with two accessions and cluster I, V and VII with one accession each. The greatest genetic distance was found between Morotí Guazú and Ib-019 with 40,443 and the most similar were Morado and Pyta guazú with a Euclidean dissimilarity measure value of 1098. Root productivity is the most important variable for the genetic distance of this collection. Total root mass is the most important variable for genetic distance. The predominant skin color of the collection is cream and pale yellow flesh color.