Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the variation in morphological characteristics of 30 varieties of onion for use as genetic markers. Identification keys for characterizing 30 onion varieties were employed on plant morphology and marked differences were observed among the varieties so that the new onion varieties could be identified, released and patented on the basis of the key. Morphological traits are thus widely accepted in plant variety protection, registration, and inscription and patenting as descriptors that are capable of showing both identity and distinctness.

Key words: Cultivar identification, onion, morphology, plant variety protection, distinctness, uniformity, stability (DUS) testing.