Evaluation of genetic variation and comparison of Iranain anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) populations

In order to evaluation of genetic variation and comparison of 8 populations of Iranian anises, a study was conducted in the research farm of University of Zanjan in randomized complete block design during 1392 and 1393. Evaluated traits were days to flowering, days to maturity, grain filling period, plant height, number of fertile umbels, umbelet numbers per umbel, grain yield, biological yield, harvest index and grain essential oil percentage. Combined analysis of variance showed significant differences between years and between studied populations, point of all traits except grain filling period. The highest coefficients of genetic and phenotypic variation were found in traits of grain yield, biological yield and grain essential oil percentage and the highest heritability in traits of grain essential oil percentage, biological yield, grain yield, umbelet numbers per umbel and plant height, respectively. Based on cluster analysis, 8 under studied populations were divided into three groups that the first group of populations were better than others in terms of important traits such as days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of fertile umbels, grain yield and biological yield. The results showed that there has been a high diversity between anise populations and yield and essential oil percentage is able to increase by selection in anise populations. Also regarding to excellencey of Qazvin, Markazi and Sabzevar populations, selecting within them can be proposed to improve yield and essential oil percent.