Morphoagronomic and industrial performance of cassava (<i>Manihot esculenta</i> Crantz) germplasm for the production of starch and solid byproducts

Abstract

The objective of the present research work was to study the morphoagronomic and industrial performance of three cassava clones. The study was carried out in two stages: A) the MMEXV5, MMEXV40, and MMEXCH23 clones were established in a subhumid warm climate; B) the storage roots were processed. For the first essay, a randomized complete block design was used, while for the second essay, a completely randomized design was used. An ANOVA analysis was done, as well as a means comparison (Tukey, 0.05) and a Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The ANOVA showed differences in the evaluated traits (p ≤ 0.05). The MMEXV5 clone showed high storage roots yield (RY = 41.24 t ha-1), plant height (PH = 4.79 m), and pulp (PUL = 80.58%); MMEXCH23 achieved higher contents of bagasse and peel; while, MMEXV40 had the highest total starch extraction (STL = 12.57%). Additionally, the three clones reached high dry matter content (DM = 34.22 to 38%), trait considered a quality factor. The PCA showed that RY was associated with a higher number of storage roots generated, PH, PUL, and lobe dimensions; but, the clones with high RY and PH developed poor DM and yield of starch extraction. Finally, the valorization of the evaluated germplasm could make cassava into the basic raw material in a great variety of products with high added value for the food and non-food industry, even obtain bioproducts and bioenergy through the conversion of bagasse and peel.