Evaluation of 19 diverse genotypes of cucumber was carried out in a randomized block design for studying genetic divergence. Presence of wide genetic diversity, among the 19 genotypes studied was confirmed by using the powerful tool of Mahalanobis D2 statistic. Based on the interactions in genetic distances 19 genotypes of cucumber got grouped into five separate clusters inferring that the genetic divergence between them was quite plentiful. The mode of distribution of genotypes into various clusters, from different ecogeographical regions viz. Purvanchal and Bihar, was at random indicating that geographical distribution and genetic diversity were not related and geographical distribution of the cultivars did not significantly contribute to genetic divergence. A random pattern of distribution of genotypes into five clusters was observed from different geographical locations, also demonstrating that geographical isolation may not be the only factor causing genetic diversity. | Swotting up on genetic divergence of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
