Forage yield and morphological traits of cactus pear genotypes

The objective of this study was to evaluate the forage yield and morphological responses 34 cactus pear (Nopalea cochenillifera Opuntia ficus indica) genotypes. genotypes were planted in a randomized complete block design, with treatments three replicates. After 330 days cultivation, characteristics, plant mortality pest disease occurrence on plants assessed, cutting performed. Multivariate analyses performed assign homogenous groups. average Euclidian distance adopted as dissimilarity measurement for use standardized data Variables relatively high levels independence among agronomic categories biological importance animal nutrition assessed. To identify associative effects, Pearson’s correlation analysis all studied variables. formation five distinct groups observed, some correlated productivity characteristics. Green mass production positively dry production, water accumulation, water-use efficiency, accumulation cladode number per plant. following had remarkably yields green mass, greater ability accumulate efficiency support capacity: Negro Michoacan (V07), Tamazunchale (V12), California (V14), Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (V17), Amarillo 2289 (T32).