Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Some Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Genotypes Using Morphological Markers

Abstract

Identification and evaluation of indigenous genotypes of fruit trees are matter of consideration at the first step of the breeding programs. In order to study genetic diversity and to identify promising genotypes, 14 different genotypes of walnut in Minoodasht region in Golestan province (north of Iran) were evaluated. Traits such as nut shape, kernel color, ease of removal of kernel halves, kernel weight, nut length, and nut widths were measured. Correlations between traits were significant at 1% and 5% percent statistical levels in most cases. Application of principal component analysis indicated that 7 main principle components (PCs) explained 91% of the total variance. Cluster analysis based on all traits was drawn; genotypes were divided into 3 groups. Presence of a great degree of variability in fruit characteristics of the studied traits is suggestive of a notable potential of these trees for breeding walnut cultivars

Keywords

• Persian walnut
• Genetic diversity
• Morphological evaluation
• Correlated traits