Analysis of genetic diversity in soybean based on agronomic traits and microsatellite markers

Abstract

The primary method of soybean breeding is artificial hybridization. Therefore, genitors must be carefully selected, especially given the crop’s restricted genetic base. This study aimed to quantify genetic diversity across soybean genotypes using agronomic traits and microsatellite markers and to identify promising parent combinations. We evaluated 26 soybean genotypes in the greenhouse and characterized 11 agronomic traits. Polymorphism for five microsatellite markers was assessed on a 2% agarose gel. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to detect genetic variability and determine genetic diversity. All agronomic traits, except plant height at maturity, showed genetic variability. The genotypic coefficients of determination ranged from 34.41% to 69.81%. The genetic dissimilarity for agronomic traits ranged from 2.49 to 42.77, enabling the formation of five, eight, and seven groups using the UPGMA, farthest neighbor, and Tocher methods, respectively. The dissimilarity obtained by the microsatellites ranged from 0.11 to 0.93, allowing the genotypes to be divided into seven, eight, and four groups, respectively, using the UPGMA, farthest neighbor, and Tocher methods. The vegetative and total cycles were the traits that contributed most to genetic diversity. The data analysis identified Emgopa 316 x NS 7200, Emgopa 316 x UFUS(7415 x MG / BR 46 Conquista), TMG 801 x NS 7200, and TMG 801 x BRSGO Luziânia hybrids as promising for early cycle, grain yield, and disease resistance. © 2025, Federal University of Lavras. All rights reserved.