Production of cultivars and native populations of Trifolium subterraneum L. in the south of France (Corsica) [subterranean clover]

• Published in: Australian journal of experimental agriculture Vol. 32; no. 5
• Main Authors: Volaire, F. (Inst. National de Recherches Agronomiques, San Nicolao (France). Station de Recherches Agronomiques), Lelievre, F, Prosperi, J.M. (Inst. National de Recherches Agronomiques, Mauguio (France). Station d'Amelioration des Plantes)
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 1992
• Subjects: CORCEGA; CORSE; ECOTIPOS; ECOTYPE; RENDEMENT DES CULTURES; RENDIMIENTO DE CULTIVOS; TRIFOLIUM SUBTERRANEUM; VARIEDADES; VARIETE
• ISSN: 0816-1089; 1446-5574
• DOI: 10.1071/EA9920619

In Corsica, 28 populations of subterranean clover were tested during 3 years: 18 French native ecotypes, and 5 Australian and 5 Spanish cultivars. A principal component analysis showed that dry matter yields, seasonal growth rhythms, and maturity date were the most important factors in the observed variability. By cluster analysis, 6 groups of subterranean clover were defined from these factors. Seasonal and total yields were linked to annual rainfall, but with a specific coefficient for each group. For 100 mm of rainfall, production ranged from 0.4 t DM per ha for the least productive group to 1.1 t DM per ha for the highest yielding group. The Australian cultivar, Clare, and 9 native Corsican ecotypes were the most productive genotypes. These highest yielding ecotypes could be exploited to breed new mid-to-late-maturing cultivars better adapted to northern Mediterranean environments. In the short term, Clare may be used on large scale, for establishment of improved pastures in this region.