Abstract

Genetic diversity in 51 genotypes of Guinea grass was estimated through D analysis. The genotypes were grouped into seven clusters. The clustering pattern indicated no relationship between the genetic divergence and geographic distribution. The intra cluster generalised distance was the highest in cluster. 1 (35 genotypes) and lowest in cluster III (2 genotypes). The inter cluster distance was the highest between clusters IV and VII and was the least between clusters II and III. Cluster VI exhibited the maximum mean values for plant height, leaf weight, leaf-stem ratio and crude protein content and least value for crude fibre content. Cluster V recorded the maximum mean values for stem weight and green fodder yield per plant. The best genotypes from different clusters were identified for future crossing programme for improvement of green fodder yield and quality..

Keywords: Guinea grass, Genetic divergence.