Assessment of genetic parameters and heritability of Dendrobium species section Spatulata native to Indonesia

Being one of the most abundant genera of orchids, Dendrobium presents a valuable genetic resource for hybridization programs. Morphological characterization and assessment of genetic parameters plays a crucial role in establishing genetic connections among orchid species within the same genus. The study aims to discern the morphological traits of five Indonesian Dendrobium species, intending to evaluate their potential as candidates for crossbreeding programs. The materials used in this study were D. antennatum, D. discolor, D. stratiotes, D. lineale, D. gouldii, and D. sylvanum. This research examines 21 quantitative traits and 21 qualitative morphological traits of the studied Dendrobium. The findings reveal variations in characters related to flowers, leaves, and pseudobulbs. The analysis of genetic parameters indicates the presence of genetic diversity in traits such as flower stalk length, length of inflorescence, flower series length, flower length, flower width, dorsal sepal width, lateral sepal width, petal length, petal width, labellum length, labellum width, and the number of florets. All observed traits demonstrate high heritability. So, the characters that have high genetic variability and heritability are valuable in selection criteria for plant breeding.