New methodology of aluminum resistance evaluation in guinea grass

Abstract

A new methodology of genotype screening as to aluminum (Al³⁺) reaction has been proposed, based on the association of principal component and stability/adaptability analyses. Experimental trials, using nutritive solutions, have been carried out in randomized complete block designs (split-plot type), with three replications, at Genetics Department in Instituto Agronômico, Campinas, SP, Brazil, from 1995 to 1997. Root system and plant traits have been evaluated in several guinea grass (Panicum maximum Jacq.) genotypes under three Al³⁺ concentrations (zero, 12 and 24 mg/L), during three time periods (15, 30 and 45 days). Percentual reductions, due to the presence of Al³⁺, have been calculated for each character and analyses performed on them. A good precision has been achieved in genotype differentiation, strongly suggesting the use of the new methodology in plant breeding programs.