Evaluation of yield potential and some agronomic traits variability in Mediterranean alfalfa cultivars in the field under Tunisian conditions

Abstract

Sixteen alfalfa populations, originating from the Mediterranean basin, were investigated under field conditions in Tunisia.This research aimed to evaluate the adaptation of cultivars to oases conditions of North Africa. The diversity among ecotypes was studied for potential yield and using some agronomic characters. The fall harvest had given the lower fresh yield in all populations and the greatest was recorded in the harvest of spring season. In addition, fresh yields were significantly different (p < 0.001) among populations, except at spring harvest. No significant differentiation was observed between populations in dry matter of both summer and spring harvest. Five agronomic characters showed significant differences between populations (p<0.001). Weeds and snail presence were negatively influenced to biomass production. However, covering and dormancy were positively related to biomass production and they can be used as early production indicators. Three groups were identified by cluster analysis independently of geographical origins.