Evaluation of genetic diversity of two-row barley by tissue culture potential

Abstract This study examined tissue culture responses and genetic variability among 25 two-row barley genotypes preserved in the Osman Tosun Gene Bank, including both Türkiye landraces and foreign-origin genotypes, with the objective of optimizing genetic resources for barley breeding programs. Key tissue culture parameters – callus induction rate, callus weight, regeneration capacity, and culture efficiency—were evaluated to access how diversity of genotypes influences tissue culture outcomes. Results revealed significant variation across all traits. Genotypes 77 and 1972 achieved the highest callus induction rates (100%), while genotype Zeynelağa exhibited the lowest (57.5%). Genotype 417 showed superior regeneration capacity (81.9%), and culture efficiency was highest in genotypes Standard Cultivar 138 (90.0%) and 1972 (70.0%). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated that the first two principal components accounted for 87.84% of the variance in tissue culture responses, providing valuable insights into genotype relationships and trait performance. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed four distinct groups, with Cluster 1 displaying the highest mean performance across traits. Collectively, these findings underscore the role of diversity of genotypes in enhancing tissue culture efficiency and plant regeneration. High-performing genotypes, including 77, 1972, 417, and standard cultivar 138, show considerable promise for biotechnological applications and future barley crop improvement initiatives.