The objective of this study was to select and characterize Lotus corniculatus genotypes with contrasting responses to toxicity by aluminum. Four cultivars (São Gabriel, San Gabriel, Draco, Estanzuela) and one population (UFRGS) were submitted to two consecutive selections in soils that presented 30-35% aluminum saturation. Selections consisted of separating 1% of the most and less vigorous individuals in order to obtain tolerant and sensitive genotypes, respectively. The individuals chosen were compared with the original germplasm by agronomical evaluation. Genotypes selected by tolerance to toxic aluminum were overall superior to the original populations. However, the materials chosen by sensitivity were inferior to the original populations even in situations where toxic aluminum was absent. Among the selected genotypes, the UFRGS selected for tolerance stood out, presenting an elevated dry matter production level - superior to all other genotypes. Field testing and seed multiplication of these genotypes for further use in areas that present this limitation is necessary, especially for the UFRGS population selected for tolerance to aluminum.
aluminum tolerance; breeding; Lotus corniculatus; soil acidity
