Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the degree of variability in morphological and agronomic characteristics of 20 Lotus corniculatus L. local genotypes, and also to set aside germplasm that will be used as a source of genetic basis for improvement of the studied properties. In poor quality soils, L. corniculatus L. plays an important role providing protein component in animal feeds. The importance of L. corniculatus L. in livestock development at hilly-mountainous areas is enormous. This study presents productive characteristics of 20 L. corniculatus L. genotypes selected from local populations in the previous period of selection. Significant differences were observed for most of the monitored parameters. The studied genotypes showed the greatest variability in green matter yield (CV 49, 58), number of pods per plant (CV 26, 27) and seed yield (CV 34, 31). To determine the significance of differences between the genotypes and their ranking for the level of significance, Duncan's multiple range testwas used. Based on the results of Duncan's multiple range test and analysis of the significance of differences between genotypes, it was ascertained that genotypes G1, G3, G15 and G17 are the basis for the creation of synthetic variety with good production properties.

Key words: Lotus corniculatus L., genotype, variability.