Thesis (BS Agriculture major in Horticulture) -- Mariano Marcos State University-College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development, Batac City

Bibliography : leaves 80-82

Morphological characterization and evaluation of the phenotypic diversity of
11 chili accessions were studied at the chili field genebank established at the
Experimental Area of the Crop Research Laboratory at Mariano Marcos State
University. The study aimed to (1) morphologically characterize chili germplasm
collection using the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI)
descriptors’ list for chili, and (2) evaluate the extent of phenotypic diversity among the
collected germplasm for effective conservation and utilization. The experimental
design that was used in the study was Descriptive Research Design. The study revealed
variations in seedling characteristics such as hypocotyl pubescence, cotyledonous leaf
color, and cotyledonous leaf shape. Hypocotyl pubescence varied from sparse to
intermediate, while cotyledonous leaf color varied from light green to dark green. Stem
color, stem pubescence, plant height, growth habit, canopy width, branching habit, leaf
color, leaf shape, mature leaf length, and mature leaf width also varied. Inflorescence
characteristics include the number of flowers per axil, flower position, and calyx
margin. Fruit characteristics include fruit color at intermediate, set, mature, and fruit
length, width, weight, pedicel length, and surface. Seed characteristics include seed
surface and number of seeds per fruit, with variations in smooth to wrinkled surfaces
and seed number. No variation in seed color was observed. The study highlights the
importance of understanding and addressing these variations in seedlings for optimal
growth and development. The study found variations in seedling, plant, inflorescence,
fruit, and seed characteristics among eleven accessions, but similar phenotypic
diversity in corolla shape, color, and fruit shape, indicating limited genetic variation,
potentially impacting breeding programs.