Diversity in marvel grass germplasm

A wide diversity in 91 collections of Marvel grass (Dichanthium annulatum) from gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh was assessed for their habit, forage yield and regrowth potential. The forage yield was higher in accessions from gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh. The winter regrowth potential in accessions from Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra pradesh was higher, while the North Indian accessions proved better in their regrowth during summer. Tiller dynamics played an important role in grouping accessions for high forage yield and classifying them for their suitability and adaptability to varying agroclimatic regions. The extent of variability for morphological characters viz., tiller height, leaf length, leaf width, circumference and tussock weight was considerable for utilization of these accessions in breeding programme.