GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN LENTIL GERMPLASM

Abstract

Nature of genetic divergence using principal component analysis in 156 accessions
of lentil (Lens culnaris Med.) germplasm belonging to different geographic regions
revealed considerable diversity. The accessions were grouped into 10 clusters.
Studies indicated that geographical isolation may not be the only factor causing
genetic diversity. Number of pods per plant, yield per plant and seeds per pod
were the most potential traits contributing to the total genetic divergence. Clusters
IV and cluster X were important because they comprised accessions with high
yield per plant, high pods per plant and high number of seeds per pod and
by utilizing accessions from these clusters there is a sufficient scope for varietal
improvement through hybridization.