Classification of selected 25 Eucalyptus clones based on qualitative, pseudo-qualitative traits and quantitative traits using numerical taxonomy for distinct, uniform and stability (DUS) testing

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability of the selected 25 Eucalyptus clones from germplasm bank of Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding (IFGTB), using morphological traits which covers qualitative, pseudo-qualitative and quantitative traits by numerical taxonomic methods. All were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with five replicates, and each plot was composed of three ramets. Data collected during the present investigation is concerned with the trend of morphological variation both within and between clones were assessed based on conventional taxonomic practice and analyzed their variability using SPSS. Due to significance of leaves as taxonomic entities is that it can be conserved for longer periods of time used for quantitative characters for discrimination. For that results of Principle component analysis and Cluster analysis of morphological characters have been used to distinguish the different taxonomic units in the field.