Estimates of phenotypic diversity and breeding potential of Ethiopian wheats

Abstract

An Ethiopian wheat collection consisting of 293 entries, tetraploids and hexaploids was scored for 14 qualitative or quantitative characters each having two or more phenotypic classes. The pattern of variation of the individual characters varied from region to region. Some characters showed localized concentrations, and others did not have any clear pattern of distribution. A clinal pattern of variation was observed for resistance to powdery mildew. The frequency of resistance increased from north to south, with a concentration of intermediate resistance on the Arussi‐Bale Highlands. A low level of diversity was observed for glume pubescence, and an intermediate to a high level of diversity for all the other characters. All estimates of regional diversity were high, and there was no significant difference among them. The genetic potential and the breeding value of Ethiopian wheats are discussed, and variety mixtures are indicated as possible method of natural gene conservation. Copyright © 1986, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved