Using multi-variate statistical methods for evaluation of genetic diversity in tall fescue

This study was conducted to assess genetic diversity among the 32 tall fescue half-sib families using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment in the four replicates. Based on analysis of variance, significant differences were observed among studied genotypes at the probability of 1% for plant height, canopy diameter, days to heading, days to pollination, crown diameter, fresh forage yield, dry forage yield, number of stem and seed yield in first harvest and in canopy diameter, crown diameter, fresh forage yield and dry forage yield in second harvest. Based on the results of mean comparisons, highest dry forage yield in the first harvest was obtained in genotype 32 by 758.5 grams. Principal component analysis by considering eigenvalues greater than one, caused to introduction of three components which determined 80.5% of the variation among the samples. In cluster analysis, the greatest of distinction between the groups was achieved with three clusters, and by cutting the dendrogram genotypes in three groups. According to the results, the third cluster was superior to other two clusters in terms of most traits. The genotypes of third cluster, according to the value of this cluster in terms of forage yield and seed yield will be of particular importance in breeding programs. In the breeding of cross-pollinated forage crops, success in selection depends on creating diversity by genetic recombination and achievement of heterosis. Due to the distance between groups 1 and 3, probably the most successful crosses will be achieved among genotypes of these two groups.