Cluster analysis of chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium Ramat.) genotypes on the basis of anthocyanin and carotenoid pigments

In the present investigation, 50 cultivars of chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium Ramat.) were evaluated to assess the genetic diversity on the basis of total anthocyanin and carotenoid content using cluster analysis by average linkage method. Cluster analysis produced two major clusters of genotypes. Among the genotypes studied for total anthocyanin content, Cluster I represents genotype (Red Gold) with highest anthocyanin content. Cluster IIA contained varieties high in anthocyanin whereas cluster IIB had genotypes with less anthocyanin content. Similarly, among the genotypes screened for total carotenoid content, highest carotenoid content was observed in genotypes under cluster II (sub-clusters: IIAa-Star yellow & Jubilee and IIAb-Haldighati, Liliput & Little Orange). Cluster I and sub-cluster IIB had genotypes with less total carotenoid content. Extensive range of genetic variability was observed among all the genotypes of chrysanthemum. The genotypes under widely divergent clusters can be utilized in hybrid breeding programme for flower colour and pigments.