Evaluation and characterization of indigenous and exotic genotypes of oat (Avena sativa L.)

Abstract

Principal factor and cluster analyses were carried out with 16 fodder and seedtraits in five exotic and 39 indigenous genotypes of oat (Avena sativa L.). Principal Factoranalysis identified five principal components which explained about 69% variability.Varimax Rotation enabled loading of similar type of variables on a common principalcomponent permitting to designate them as fodder yield, panicle characters, colour andseed yield factors. Genotypes JO 1, RO 19, OS 346, JHO 99-1 and JHO 822 were found tobe better performers on the basis of principal factor scores with regard to fodder and seedyield traits when both the principal factors were considered together. These genotypesmay further be utilized in breeding programmes for improving fodder and seed yield andfor evolving dual type oat varieties. Hierarchical cluster analysis resulted into six clusterscontaining one to 19 genotypes. The best clusters with regard to fodder and seedcharacters were C I, II and IV. The results of Cluster and Principal Factor analyses were inagreement.