Multivariate analysis of Ficus benghalensis L. based on morphological characterizations

Abstract

• Phenotypic variation of Ficus benghalensis L. was evaluated. • The characters recorded were significantly different among the accessions studied. • Leaf length ranged from 10.23 to 18.63 cm. • Fruit skin ground color was highly variable and ranged from light orange to dark crimson. • The accessions studied could be served as raw materials for further genetic improvement. Ficus benghalensis L. (banyan) has been widely introduced across tropical and subtropical areas of the world and is used as a traditional medicine. Phenotypic variation of 38 accessions of this species was evaluated. The characteristics recorded were significantly different among the accessions studied. Leaf length ranged from 10.23 to 18.63 cm, and leaf width varied from 7.18 to 12.17 cm. Fruit skin ground color was highly variable and included light orange (10 accessions), orange (7), crimson (14), and dark crimson (7). Principal component analysis (PCA) showed 13 independent components that could explain 84.14% of total variance. Ward dendrogram created according to the data obtained revealed the variation among the accessions and showed two major clusters, indicating considerable diversity among the accessions studied. The accessions studied could be served as raw materials for further genetic improvement of different characteristics of F. benghalensis . The findings provided a foundation for future studies on phenotypic characterizations within the species, the identification of accessions, and breeding strategies by which to enhance its economic values. Ecological management of F. benghalensis sites will be necessary to preserve populations in situ . Also, ex situ efforts should also be undertaken to preserve this valuable germplasm.