PHYSIOLOGY CHARACTERISTICS OF SWEETPOTATO CLONES

Abstract

With the purpose of assessing physiological characteristics of sweetpotato clones in Vitória da Conquista, sixteen clones were analyzed, originating from Janaúba, MG, Viçosa, MG; Bom Jardim de Minas, MG; Gurupi, TO; Santo Antônio da Platina, PR; Holambra II, SP; Vitória da Conquista, BA; and Condeúba, BA. Random plots were utilized with 16 treatments and three repetitions divided in 3 blocks.  The following characteristics were analyzed: hydric potential; relative water ratio; proline ratio; and total chlorophyll ratio. The data were submitted to variance analysis using a Scott–Knott test with 5% probability. Among the clones analyzed, no differences in hydric potential or relative ratio of water were encountered.  However, regarding proline ratios, it was possible to separate the clones into two distinct groups:  the clones standing out with the most elevated values were clones7, 9, 19, 25, 29, 30, 38, 44 and 100. A negative correlation was found between the relative water ratio and the hydric potential measured before sunrise and at midday. However, no correlations were found among the hydric potential at 05.00 h, hydric potential obtained at noon and the relative ratio of water with the ratio of proline.  The chlorophyll ratio presented had a positive correlation with proline.