Multivariate analyses in forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]

Principal factor analysis identified nine principal components which explained 79% variability in forage sorghum. The principal factor analysis applying varimax rotation enabled loading of similar type of variables on a common principal component permitting to designate them as fodder yield factor, insects-pests' attack factor, diseases' incidence factor, etc., as per type of variables loaded with. Genotypes S 199, IS 3359, G 127, G 143 and IS 3075 were found to be better performers on the basis of principal factor scores with regard to fodder yield and its components when all the principal factors were considered simultaneously. These genotypes may be further utilized in breeding programmes for improving fodder yield. Hierarchical cluster analysis resulted into ten clusters containing one to thirty-two genotypes. The best clusters with regard to fodder yield were X, VI and VII. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis and principal factor analysis confirmed each other.