Genetic Relationships among Three Yarrow Species Based on Phenotypic Traits and Peroxidase Profiling

Fifteen yarrow populations from different species Achillea millefolium L., A. biebersteinii L. and A. nobilis, from different geographical areas of Iran were studied using 24 morphological traits and peroxidase profiles. Comparison of mean values of different phenotypic traits show A. millefolium and A. biebersteinii L. had higher plant height and crown diameter; however, A. nobilis had higher dry matter yield and 1000-grain weight. Clustering pattern, made on the basis of different phenotypic traits, grouped the Achillea populations differently and gave no clear indication of origin or species. The results of peroxidase profiles revealed that the genetic diversity of A. nobilis samples was considerably higher than in A. millefolium and A. biebersteinii. Principal coordinate analysis revealed a clear separation between the different Achillea species. The results demonstrated that the study of genetic diversity and relationships among Achillea species using phenotypic traits and peroxidase profiles provides important information for the collection, conservation and the planning of future breeding programs.