Multivariate analysis applied to the evaluation of genetic variability for the physiological quality trait of common bean seeds

Abstract

Knowledge of the genetic variability and of the variables for evaluating common bean lines for the physiological seed quality trait is important for the selection of promising common bean genotypes for this trait in breeding programs. Through multivariate analysis, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of physical and physiological tests for studies of genetic variability in seeds of common bean lines. Twenty lines of common bean were evaluated for thousand-seed weight, first count, germination, tetrazolium, electrical conductivity, accelerated aging, field emergence and seedling performance. The experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance, analysis of genetic parameters and multivariate analysis of principal components. Genetic variability was observed among the common bean lines, and two groups of lines with superior physiological performance according to the germination and seed vigor tests were identified. First germination count, germination, seedling length in the field, accelerated aging and emergence speed index tests are the most promising for characterizing the physiological potential of seeds of common bean lines.