Genetic divergence of inbred lines in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Genetic divergence of 79 inbred lines of sunflower using eight agronomic characters was studied. Analysis of variance revealedthe existence of divergence among the inbred lines. Mahalanobis D2 statistics indicated the presence of substantial geneticdiversity. Based on intercluster D2 value and cluster mean for various characters, potential inbred lines were identified.Intercrossing of these inbreds will exhibit more variability for yield and yield component traits. The character oil yield was foundto be important as the major contributor for genetic divergence. The usefulness of genetic divergence for the identification ofparents for heterosis breeding is not proved and needs further research.