Morpho-Physiological Characterization of Potato (Solanum Tuberosum) Genotypes of the Andigenum and Phureja Group from the Working Collection of the Universidad De Nariño

Abstract

This study presents the morpho-physiological characterization of potato (Solanum tuberosum) genotypes from the Andigenum and Phureja groups, cultivated at the Nariño, Colombia. The research addresses the vital role of genetic diversity in agricultural sustainability and food security, highlighting the importance of genetic resources for crop improvement and ecosystem stability. The study utilized a comprehensive morphological characterization based on both qualitative and quantitative descriptors to assess genetic variability within the university's potato collection. This approach allowed for the identification of duplicates, the enhancement of a morphological database, and insights into the genetic diversity of the collections. Using techniques like Multiple Correspondence Analysis (ACM) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), distinct clusters of genotypes were identified, which were highly influenced by their ploidy levels. Results indicated significant morphological variation between diploid Phureja and tetraploid Andigenum genotypes. Phureja genotypes showed greater similarity among themselves compared to the more diverse Andigenum group. This morphological diversity is importante for the identification of specific traits beneficial for breeding programs, such as resistance to environmental stresses and diseases. The study underscores the importance of maintaining genetic diversity within potato germplasm collections, facilitating the selection of genotypes with desirable agronomic traits. The findings contribute significantly to the understanding of the genetic and morphological foundations necessary for the future genetic improvement of the potato, a staple food crop with profound implications for global food security. The geographic distribution of the genotypes also suggested a correlation between morphological traits and geographic locations, reinforcing the role of local adaptation in crop diversity and resilience.