Exploring genetic diversity and breeding potential in Tagetes species using morphological traits

Abstract

Marigold is a commercially important flower crop valued for its ornamental and industrial uses. Genetic
diversity among 137 genotypes was assessed using 17 morphological traits to identify diverse parents for
crop improvement program. Significant diversity was observed in vegetative and reproductive traits between
two Tagetes species. Tagetes patula genotypes were characterized by early flowering and higher number of
flowers/plants, while Tagetes erecta genotypes exhibited larger flower diameter, higher flower weight and flower
yield/plant. High heritability with high genetic advance over mean was recorded for most vegetative, flowering
and seed traits, except flower diameter, suggesting scope of further improvement through selection. Principal
component and Hierarchical cluster analyses grouped the genotypes into two major clusters that separated the
species and identified genotypes with superior traits for targeted breeding programs.