Selection of sugary cassava genotypes for ethanol production
Keywords:
Manihot esculenta, alcohol, breeding, starch, yieldAbstract
The objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic diversity of sugary cassava genotypes in relation to production parameters and the chemical composition of storage roots for ethanol production. A randomized complete block design was used to evaluate eight genotypes grown in two locations (municipalities) in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Yield presented a positive correlation with number of roots per plant and average root weight, as well as a negative correlation with specific gravity, root dry matter, and starch content in storage roots. Genotype 597/10 showed a greater dissimilarity to cultivar BRS 438, mainly due to higher contents of dry matter, starch, and sugar in storage roots. The 1096/12, 999/12, and 1380/10 genotypes presented a greater similarity to cultivar BRS 438. Therefore, the evaluated sugary cassava genotypes show a significant genetic diversity. Due to its production characteristics and tuberous root chemical composition, genotype 597/10 has potential as raw material for alcoholic fermentation processes.
