Caracterización de maíces locales de la región Frailesca de Chiapas: diversidad morfológica y productiva

The diversity of local maize varieties in the Frailesca region of Chiapas is an important biocultural heritage,resulting from centuries of co-evolution with local communities. Studying these maize varieties enhancesunderstanding of their genetic diversity and traditional knowledge, which in turn promotes sustainablemanagement strategies, conservation, and food security. This research was carried out during the springsummer cycle of 2022 in Villaflores, Chiapas, with the aim of characterizing 13 local maize varieties based onphenological variables (flowering and maturity), morphological traits (height and biomass), and yield. Data was analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce dimensionality. The resulting factor loadings wereused to perform hierarchical cluster analysis, grouping the varieties according to characteristics. Three principalcomponents (development, yield, and biomass) explained 89 % of the total variance, which emphasized itsimportance in differentiating maize varieties. Cluster analysis identified three maize groups: Group 1 with along cycle and moderate biomass, Group 2 with low yield and short cycle, and Group 3 with high foliar biomassand elevated yield. The diversity of traits in local maize varieties enriches traditional knowledge and fosterssustainable management strategies, contributing to conservation and food security in the Frailesca region.