Application of Cluster Analysis for Evaluation of new Bulgarian and Macedonian Cotton Varieties and Lines

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the genetic distance between elevenBulgarian and four Macedonian cotton varieties by applying the methodof cluster analysis. The trial was carried out in 2008 and 2009. The clusteranalysis based on the varieties of agronomic and fi ber technological propertiesconfi rmed the genetic differences between them. The varieties grouped intotwo basic groups depending on the breeding directions and breeding methods.Some varieties were genetically very similar and they could be includedin one breeding program for rapid breeding effect. The Macedonian varietiesand lines were genetically distant from some Bulgarian varieties and theirincluding in one breeding program can has a good effect. The year conditionshad infl uence on genetic similarity and genetic remoteness as a result ofpredetermination of genetic formulas controlling the traits. In Strumica thevarieties differentiated stronger in yield and lint percentage and weaker in fi berlength.