A differential rate of regional distribution of barley flavonoid patterns in Ethiopia, and a view on the center of origin of barley

131 Land race populations of barley represented by 745 individuals from 16 regions in Ethiopia were investigated for a microgeographical distribution of flavonoid patterns. The differential distributions and frequencies of various flavonoid patterns observed in different regions are presumed to be the effect of natural selection, and are indicated to be used as additional characters in pinpointing areas for in situ gene conservation. A regional correlated abundance of Est-B null alleles and flavonoid patterns gave unclarified indications calling for further investigations. A numerical analysis of groupings of the various flavonoid spots recorded was found to show congruence with the already established patterns. A further split of the defined patterns and the possible utility of such subdivisions in disease resistance identification is outlined. The concept for the centre of origin of barley is discussed, the ruling out of the possibility of Ethiopia being the centre of origin for barley is questioned, and the need for archaelogical and genetical evidence on this issue is highly recommended.