Morphological Characterization of Table Cassava (Manhiot esculenta Crantz) Accessions As a Preliminary Genotype's Selection in the Region of Chapadinha- MA, Brazil.

The cultivation of table cassava in the microregion of Chapadinha presents a very low productivity 7.4 t/ha compared to the Brazilian average 13.3 t/ha. The poor regional performance of this crop is due the usage of not adapted varieties. It has been observed that the morphological characterization enables to differentiate access into a species, besides to indicate the genetic diversity between genotypes. Thus this work was carried out to characterize ten genotypes of table cassava in Chapadinha as a preliminary way to select them for the region. The experiment was conducted in the village of Vila União, using randomized block design with four replications and ten treatments or genotypes. The treatments were distributed in the plots in spacing of 1.20 x0.5 meters with 6 utile plants per plot. The plants were characterized at the age of 8 months by 25 morphological descriptors proposed by the Embrapa Cassava and Fruits. It was concluded that there was predominance of conic cylindrical (50%) for the format of tuberous roots as well as vertical position of roots (60%). There was predominance of sessile roots (40%) white pulp of roots (50%), and absence of constriction in roots (80%). Also there was predominance of straight growth of stalk habit (50%), and cylindrical and compact plant kinds, both with frequency of (40%). It was observed frequency of green color (50%) and dark green (60%) for adult leaves and branches respectively. Light green (60%) was predominate color for apical bud, and for petiole it was observed predominance of the color green- reddish (30%).The genotypes Rampa, Rosa and Gema de Ovo presented good root’s characteristics such as cylindrical format, absence of constriction and easy peeling besides of compact plant’s format, which make them an excellent option for cultivation and consumption in the region.