Evaluation of macaw palm progenies in juvenile phase and estimates of genetic parameters and genetic diversity

Abstract

The macaw palm (Acrocomia aculeate) is an extraction oil palm and its fruit is of great socioeconomic importance for small farmers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic variability and to obtain information about the genetic control of morphological traits related to growth and vigor of macaw palm. Fifty-one open pollinated progenies were collected in Minas Gerais and São Paulo States, which are active members of the germplasm bank of Viçosa Federal University. These 51 progenies, twelve months after planting, were evaluated for plant growth and number of leaves emitted. The characteristics evaluated presented great variability among the progenies. Heritability coefficient of 87% and 48% were obtained for plant growth and leaf number emitted, respectively, revealing a high degree of genetic control and potential for the genetic breeding. The Tocher´s method was efficient to allocate progenies from State of São Paulo in the same group. The rank index selection method allowed the selection of more balanced progenies and individuals for the two traits, making possible to optimize the selection and obtain gains in all traits simultaneously.