Genetic variability among jarina palm (Phytelephas macrocarpa Ruíz & Pavón) progenies based on seed, germination and seedling characteristics

Abstract

Abstract: Jarina is a palm tree from the western Amazon region, whose seeds have characteristics like those of animal ivory, used for making handicrafts. The aim of this work was to evaluate the genetic variability of jarina palm progenies, from seed morphophysiological characteristics, germination and seedling stages. The experimental design adopted was completely randomized, with 15 treatments (progenies), 3 repetitions, and 15 seeds per experimental unit. Thirty-one morphophysiological characteristics of the seed and seedling were used. With the characteristics that had significant variability, the progenies were grouped using the UPGMA method. The results showed genetic variability among progenies for 24 traits. Considering 50% of dissimilarity, four groups were identified: Group 1 - P05; Group 2 - P04, P11 and P12; Group 3 - P06, P10, P08, P14, P15, P07, P09, P02 and P13; and Group 4 - P01 and P03. Morphophysiological traits of the seed, germination and seedling are useful to detect genetic variability among jarina palm progenies. Three progenies (P04, P11 and P12) stood out for having the highest percentage of germination and the different seedling stages, as well as the highest speed indices and shortest times, in relation to germination and seedling stages.