Elucidating molecular and morpho-agronomic diversity of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) germplasm lines

Abstract

Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) is recognized for its high-yielding potential, ease of propagation and adaptability across various ecological conditions, making it a superior fodder crop. This study aimed to evaluate genetic diversity and morpho-agronomic performance among 34 Napier grass genotypes using molecular and phenotypic characterization. The experiment was conducted across two locations: Ludhiana and Gurdaspur during 2022 and 2023. Molecular diversity was assessed using 33 polymorphic SSR markers. A total of 91 alleles were detected with an average Polymorphic Information Content of 0.43, indicating that the markers were highly informative for diversity analysis. Simultaneously, the genotypes were evaluated for 12 morpho-agronomic traits to identify superior lines for nutritional quality and high fodder yield. GGE biplot analysis identified LN-29, LN-31, LN-13 and Red Napier grass as stable and high-performing genotypes for green fodder yield and quality-related traits. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations between green fodder yield and several traits. Hierarchical clustering grouped the genotypes into 3 distinct clusters. Analysis of variance showed significant effects of genotype, environment and genotype x environment interaction for most traits. The comprehensive evaluation led to the identification of promising Napier grass genotypes with exceptional morpho-agronomic performance.