SELECTION OF SUPERIOR GENOTYPES OF LIMA BEAN LANDRACES BY MULTIVARIATE APPROACH

ABSTRACT The knowledge of genetic diversity in plant population is essential to the success breeding programs. Thus, previous characterization landraces one first steps before indication genotypes these This study aimed characterize, through morphological traits, and estimate lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.). Genetic was estimated by using multivariate methods that selected individual be indicated for farmers consumers. According traits proposed Biodiversity International, UFPI-667 UFPI- 682 showed higher dissimilarity high potential used crosses since they are genetically distant complementary. principal component analysis identified positive significant phenotypic associations between variables: pod length, width, grain production. used, UFPI-666, UFPI-650, UFPI-651, UFPI-687, UFPI-658, UFPI-673, UFPI-667, UFPI-674 candidates selection have relevant features breeding, such as shorter cycles can an effective tool find assist breeders landraces. Accessions UFPI-682 genitors programs, complementary their characteristics.