Assessment of genetic divergence through cluster analysis of chilli varieties

Our study on genetic diversity was conducted with six chilli genotypes with inter- and intra-specific cross varieties of the three most popular chilli species (Capsicum annuum L., Capsicum chinense Jacq., and Capsicum frutescens L.). Twelve quantitative characters, viz. plant height (cm), primary branches, secondary branches, number of flowers, number of fruits/plant; dry fruit weight (g), fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), pedicel length (cm), pericarp thickness (mm), seeds/fruit, and seed weight (g), were taken into consideration. The analysis of variance revealed considerable variability among the genotypes for the character studied. Cluster analysis was used for grouping of parental and hybrid chilli genotypes under the study grouped into five clusters. Cluster I had the maximum (12) and clusters IVand V had the minimum number (1) of genotypes. The inter-cluster D² values ranged between 40.404 and 127.530. The minimum inter-cluster distance was between clusters III and IV (40.404). The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters II and V (127.53). Diversity pattern and other horticultural performance among the genotypes of new varieties were generated due to the cross between Local Line Mahadev Pramanick and Sukhia bullet and also the cross between Local Line Mahadev Pramanick and Habanero orange (cluster II) as well as single parental variety i.e. Habanero orange. These genotypes were identified as promising varieties with respect to various characters may be taken into consideration as better parents for an efficient hybridization programme of chilli.