Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Some Grape Cultivars Using Fruit Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics

The genetic variation is fundamental to most genetics programs, and selections rely on the existence of favorite genetic diversity of studied traits. This research was carried out in order to identify genetic variation of 14 grape cultivars using 28 fruit qualitative and quantitative traits. Results showed noticeable variation among cultivars at all studied traits which explain significant difference and diversity among cultivars and also measured traits. Correlation coefficient showed significant positive or negative relationship between some important traits. Cluster analysis for all measured traits was conducted based on Ward method. The cultivars were classified into four groups. Native cultivars - Mashhad and Dargaz - were classified in two separate groups. Berry shape, fruit skin color, flesh anthocyanin color, time of beginning of berry ripening, bunch size and bunch density were important and key traits in clusters breakdown. The key traits had high variation and in terms of stability were able to distinguish between cultivars. Results from this study showed high variation in studied grape cultivars and therfore selection could be undertaken based on considered traits.