ABSTRACT:
The goal of this study was to assess the variability ofPaspalum plicatulum x P. guenoarum interspecific hybrids in terms of agronomic performance and their tolerance to cold conditions, as well as to estimate the correlation of different phenotypic characters associated with forage production. Twenty hybrids plants were used, besides one accessP. guenoarum , one ofP. plicatulum and the cultivar 'Pensacola' (P. notatum ). Assessments were performed on individual plants, in a completely randomized design with five repetitions.Paspalum genotypes presented variability in total dry matter, leaf dry mass, leaf: stem ratio, and tolerance to cold. We suggest selection of the hybrids 08Q01 and 08Q44 for new stages within a forage improvement program. Estimates of phenotypic correlation may aid in the selection of genotypes with better agronomic traits.
Key words:
apomixis; native grasses; hybridization
