Multicategorical descriptors for creole genotypes of Amazon chicory (Eryngium foetidum)

Abstract

The knowledge concerning genetic variability of creole genotypes by using morphological descriptors in species such as Amazon chicory is crucial to quantify local diversity and protect improved cultivars. Accordingly, this study aimed to propose multicategory leaf morphological descriptors for Amazon chicory species. To achieve that, an experiment was arranged in randomized block design with four repetitions. The treatments comprised eight creole genotypes of Amazon chicory, which were obtained from local producers’ collection. The proposed multi-categorical descriptors are based on limb shape, leaf apex shape, leaf base shape, leaf margin, bract consistency, and bract margin traits. Once the multicategorical clustered data were obtained, they were transformed into a dissimilarity matrix. The limb shape presents dissimilarity, being either lanceolate or spatulate; as well as for leaf margin, which can be dentate or serrate. Thus, both limb shape and leaf margin constitute important qualitative descriptors for genetic diversity assessment and conservation for Amazon chicory, besides a recommended tool to be exploited in breeding programs.

Genetic diversity in creole genotypes of Amazon chicory

“…The monomorphic behavior observed in the analysis of qualitative descriptors suggests similarity among the genotypes; therefore, they did not contribute to indicate the most divergent for intercrossing, which were defined by quantitative characteristics. In another study that evaluated Amazon chicory creole genotypes via multicategorical descriptors, a variability related to leaf margin characteristics was also observed (Gomes et al 2020), which demonstrates that this trait varies among genotypes of this species, but it was not enough to express more variability in the present study.…”

How can low germination rates in Amazon chicory seeds be overcome?

“…countries (GOMES et al, 2011). In addition, it belongs to the group of non-conventional food plants (PANC in Portuguese), which are a source of nutrients, vitamins, and mineral salts, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (GOMES et al, 2011;PASCHOAl & SOUzA, 2015).…”

“…countries (GOMES et al, 2011). In addition, it belongs to the group of non-conventional food plants (PANC in Portuguese), which are a source of nutrients, vitamins, and mineral salts, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (GOMES et al, 2011;PASCHOAl & SOUzA, 2015). Its seed maturation is heterogeneous because flowering follows an indeterminate pattern, common in species of the family Apiaceae, characterized initially by primary umbels, then secondary, tertiary, and so on (EKPONG; SUKPRAKARN, 2006;SUKPRAKARN, 2008).…”