Selection of elite genotypes of Haloxylon aphyllum in Semnan ecologic conditions

Haloxylon aphyllum is an important plant species, which is widely used in sand dune fixation. Desirable characteristics of the species and high compatibility to arid areas caused the species to be increasingly planted in the areas. Since the species produces suitable high protein forage for livestock, during winter and autumn seasons, it could be used in livestock production as well as environment concerns. The research was carried out on progenies of 29 Haloxylon aphyllum genotypes, collected from four different sites, during 1998-2003 to select desirable genotypes, in Semnan province, using a randomized block design with three replications. Plant height, canopy cover, collar diameter, first lateral branch height from collar, seed production, pecil and trips resistance were recorded on the single plants. Cluster analysis and principal components analysis were used to evaluate qualitative variation between the studied genotypes in order to select the elite genotypes of the species to be used in breeding purposes, including seed orchard establishment. Eleven elite genotypes were detected based on the results of the experiment.