Morphological Characterization of <i>Amaranthus palmeri</i> x <i>A. spinosus</i> Hybrids

Abstract

The growth of clones of seven Amaranthus palmeri x A. spinosus hybrids was compared to type specimens of A. palmeri and A. spinosus. The hybrids came from the field where they were originally discovered and clones of the type specimens and hybrids were established under greenhouse conditions and used to compare growth rates. A. palmeri had the highest growth rate and A. spinosus the lowest growth rate based on height, node counts, and dry weight accumulation. A. palmeri also had the greatest number of days to flowering and A. spinosus the fewest. Hybrids had intermediary growth rates and days to flowering, but differed from each other with regard to sex identity. The hybrids were either dioecious like A. palmeri or, if monoecious, had patterns unlike A. spinosus. Spine length and texture also varied in hybrids and some were without spines. Hybrid 16Ci was short compared to all others and had succulent leaves and stems, which easily separated from the plant body. These hybridizations resulted in morphologically distinct types with acquisition of physical traits intermediate to the type specimens which may drive evolution of these species.

Agromophological Characterisation of Amaranth Accessions from Malawi

“…In order for such commercialisation and conservation efforts to be sustainable it is important to understand the diversity of Amaranth in Malawi. Agro-mor-phological characterisation and evaluation of amaranth accessions can provide breeders with valuable information on effective utilization of genetic resources for breeding programmes [6]. Agro-morphological characterisation of cultivars has an important role in the measurement of genetic diversity hence it is necessary in effective conservation of biodiversity of amaranth and in improvement programmes of the crop [7].…”

Multivariate analysis for yield and yield-related traits of amaranth genotypes from Ethiopia

“…To enhance leaf and grain yields through selection and subsequent breeding programs, this study set out to evaluate the genetic diversity in amaranth genotypes. The amaranth genus, according to several studies, has a lot of morphological diversity [ [24] , [25] , [26] ]. This type of information is critical for selecting better genotypes for breeding efforts.…”