Integrating multi-trait selection indices and molecular marker-based diversity analysis for identification of yield and nutritional quality traits in pearl millet ( Pennisetum glaucum L.)
Genetic diversity study identifies superior yield and nutritional traits in pearl millet genotypes, highlighting complementary multi-trait selection indices for crop improvement.
Key Points
To evaluate morpho-biochemical and molecular diversity among Indian pearl millet genotypes and identify superior lines for yield and nutritional enhancement using multi-trait selection indices.
Evaluated 48 pearl millet genotypes of Indian origin using integrated morphological, biochemical, and molecular profiling.
Assessed multi-trait selection efficiency using genotype by yield*trait (GYT) biplots and the multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI).
Characterized genetic diversity and population structure using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers.
The first seven principal components explained 63.4% of total variation, with grain yield positively correlated with plant height, thousand-seed weight, manganese, and potassium.
GYT biplot identified G47, G15, G12, G24, G13, G28, and G7 as superior yield performers, while MGIDI selected G7, G8, G25, G33, G34, G37, and G48 for balanced multi-trait performance.
Molecular marker analysis revealed 83% of genetic variation resided within populations, categorizing genotypes into two distinct subpopulations with minimal admixture.