Identification of High-Yielding Genotypes Through Multivariate Analysis in Small Cardamom [Elattaria cardamomum (L.) Maton]

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the variability among 20 high-yielding small cardamom accessions, including the widely recognized "Green Gold" variety. The study comprised hybrids, breeding lines, and seedling selections, all chosen for their exceptional yield potential. The trial was carried out over four years at the Cardamom Research Station of Kerala Agricultural University, using a randomized block design (RBD). Analysis of ten yield-contributing traits revealed significant genetic diversity among the accessions at the 1% probability level. Among the genotypes, PS 27 recorded the highest fresh weight, whereas Pl. No. 14 registered the highest dry weight, indicating an excellent dry recovery percentage. PS 27 also showed superior performance in capsule volume, with Pl. No. 19 and HY 9 exhibit comparable results. HY 9 recorded the highest weight for 100 capsules, further highlighting the bold capsule characteristics of PS 27. PS 3 had the maximum seed count, followed by PS 27, while Pl. No. 14 showed superior performance in most traits, except for the 100-capsule weight. The results highlighted PS 27 and Pl.No. 14 as promising candidates for breeding programs targeting yield improvement in cardamom. Cluster analysis grouped the accessions into three clusters based on 75% genetic similarity, with Cluster II comprising the majority of genotypes, whereas PS 27 was uniquely placed in Cluster III. Pl.No. 14 and Green Gold were grouped in Cluster I, reflecting their superior yield and morphological traits. The first four principal components explained 82.5% of the total variation, underscoring the potential of morphologically diverse genotypes to strengthen breeding strategies for small cardamom.