MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATIONS IN CULTIVATED STYLOSANTHES SPECIES

A study of some morphologically diagnostic attributes that remain stable under normal farm conditions was made. The species used were Stylosanthes guyanensis, S. humilis, S. erecta and S. fruticosa. Further observations using greenhouse plants were made to supplement the field data.

Morphological variations were observed in leaves, crop height, flowers, pods, seeds, roots and nodule number S. guyanensis was found most successful as it had the highest dry matter yield and relatively good crude protein value (compare 52, 156, 269 and 191 gm for dry matter yield per plant and 14.4, 10.7, 15.7 and 12.0% for S. erecta, S. humilis, S. guyanensis and S. fruticosa respectively). Morphological variations were observed from early stages of growth and development till full maturity. These observed variations were used to develop an identification key. Results were further discussed in terms of their use at the farm levels to ensure procurement of the appropriate species.