Abstract:
The ability to identify genetic variation is indispensable to effective management and use of genetic
resources. Morphological traits are among the earliest markers used in germplasm characterization and
management. Leaf and fruit morphological characteristics were recorded for 23 cultivars of Macadamia
using a sample of 30 for each trait and replicated three times. The analysis of variance revealed
significant differences in leaf length, width, petiole length and leaf marginal serrations. Significant
differences were also revealed in fruit cluster length, number of fruits per cluster, fruit length but not
fruit width. Cluster analysis using R statistics grouped the accessions into three major clusters
referring to the two cultivated Macadamia species; Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla
displaying the highest dissimilarity, and the hybrids at the intermediate position. These markers are
found to be reliable in distinguishing between the macadamia cultivars in Kenya. Among the markers,
leaf petiole and marginal serrations are easily assessable and possible to use in distinguishing between
the species.
