Analysis of Competitive Ability among Clones of the Palisade Grass, Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. Ex. A. Rich.) Stapf.

Abstract

Analysis of Competitive Ability among Clones of the Palisade Grass,Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. Ex. A. Rich.) Stapf. AbstractFour clones of palisade grass, Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. Ex. A. Rich.) Stapf., were studied in a diallel competition trial to investigate their competitive relationship in clonal mixtures. Clone X associate interactions were observed for plant height, number of tillers per plant and dry matter yield per plant. Both general and specific competitive abilities were observed for tiller number and dry matter yield. Clone X associate interaction for plant height was mainly due to the specific competitive ability of individual combinations. The most competitive clone observed was CIAT 6387. Competitive abilities of local clones were low compared to the imported clones. Local clones (RU 127 and RU 139) yielded more than imported clones (CIAT 6387 and PI 292185) under low competitive stresses. General and specific competitive abilities should be taken into consideration when mixing clones of palisade grass.