Phenotypic characterization and grouping of gladiolus genotypes using DUS descriptors

Abstract

Phenotypic characterization of 84 Indian and exotic gladiolus genotypes was carried out at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi during two consecutive winter seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19. Twenty one characteristics including vegetative, corm and floral parts were used to distinguish and grouped selected genotypes. Biometric data was recorded at full flowering stage using DUS (Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability) guidelines established by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority, New Delhi. Among these DUS characters, seven were assessed as dimorphic and 14 as polymorphic. Characterization information for different traits could be used as reference collection for precise identification and distinction of gladiolus varieties. This information may assist the farmers, nurserymen and breeders to pursue protection for their new varieties under PPV and FRA, New Delhi.

Keywords

• Distinctiveness
• Characterization
• Grouping
• Protection
• Phenotype