Multi-character selection for identifying superior oil palm cultivar using MGIDI

Abstract

Abstract Efficient selection methods are needed in oil palm breeding programs. Selection efficiency will increase if the selection is conducted on several characters simultaneously. However, the selection of segregating progeny is difficult because it is quantitative. MGIDI (Multi-trait Genotype Ideotype Distance Index) is formed based on Monte Carlo simulation to select superior progeny by considering several characters simultaneously. The aim of this study is to evaluate and identify planting materials with compact palm and good production traits using MGIDI. Data were obtained from 21 DxT palms planted at Dolok Sinumbah Plantation, PT. Nusantara IV Plantation, North Sumatra. The imbalanced North Carolina II mating design was employed to produce the materials for this study. The observed characters are the bunch analysis component and vegetative traits. Based on the factorial analysis (FA) results, these characters were grouped into three groups where FA1 contains ODM, OWM, HI, and DIAM. FA2 consists of BW and FB. FA3 consists of MF, OB, SF, KF, and LAI. Based on MGIDI, the selected superior progenies were DT11, DT6, and DT1. Aside from these genotypes DT15 was near the cut point, suggesting that it has an interesting feature. Positive selection gains (0.57-1.52) are obtained for the desired traits, and negative selection gains (-0.24 – (-0.88)) for undesirable traits. Visualization of the strength and weaknesses of each genotype can also assist breeders in decision-making to improve the progeny in the next breeding cycle.