Genetic diversity of Terminalia tomentosa from Achanakmar Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (Chhattisgarh)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the genetic diversity within populations of Terminalia tomentosa found in the Achanakmar Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve in Chhattisgarh, utilizing genetic analysis techniques. Nine (09) genotypes of T. tomentosa were sampled from the three sub-populations of Achanakmar Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve of Chhattisgarh,their growth, physiological and biochemical characteristics were meticulously analyzed to quantify genetic diversity. The results reveal that distinct variations exist across these genotypes in terms of their growth and physiological traits, as well as their biochemical profiles, suggesting a notable level of genetic polymorphism within the reserve. Across all traits, the difference between Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV)and Genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) is minimal and environmental coefficient of variation (ECV) values remain very low (ranged from 0.19 to 0.99). Biochemical traits exhibit significantly higher GCV and PCV compared to growth traits. All recorded traits show high heritability, exceeding 74% which determined the genetic architecture of these populations and underscore the potential for selective breeding. The results on the above three genetic variations, estimates broad sense heritability (h²) and genetic advance (GA) derived from these analyses provide a clear picture on the population structure and genetic differentiation among the sampled individuals. The results of this study can be instrumental in devising effective conservation strategies and sustainable management practices for T. tomentosa within the Achanakmar Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, emphasizing the importance of preserving this valuable genetic resource.