GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN PARWAL (TRICHOSANTHES DIOICA ROXB.)

Abstract

The genetic divergence in 23 genotypes of parwal has been assessed utilizing
generalised distance and cannonical analysis. The 23 genotypes fell into six
clusters. Two cannonical vectors needed to be considered to account for about
82% of variation. Geographical isolation has not contributed to the genetic
.divergence. The observed genetic divergence therefore seems to be possibly due
to phenotypic differences in genotypes background. The inter-cluster divergence
was maximum in cluster III, where as inter-cluster distance was maximum between
cluster I and II. Fruit volume followed by pulp weight and seed weight appeared
to contribute 'maximum to genetic divergence. Genetic drift and selection in
different environments seem to cause greater genetic diversity rather than genetic
isolation.