Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Author: Naresh, Ashok Kumar Dehinwal, Ram Avtar, Neeraj Kumar, Nisha Kumari, Mahavir Bishnoi and Rajbir Singh Khedwal

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Abstract

The present study involved 48 Indian mustard genotypes which were assessed for seed yield and its associated traits across 11 characters during the rabi season of 2022-23 at CCS HAU, Hisar. The analysis of variance indicated highly significant genotypic differences for all traits examined. The highest variability was observed in test weight (29.64%), while days to maturity showed the least variability (1.95%). Notably, secondary branches per plant (91.43%) and main shoot length (89.04%) exhibited very high broad sense heritability. Genetic advance was also notably high for test weight (36.54%), secondary branches per plant (35.54%), and primary branches per plant (26.65%). While high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was depicted by secondary branches per plant, seed yield per plant and thousand seed weight. This knowledge empowers breeders to develop new varieties that are not only higher-yielding but also more resilient to environmental challenges, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and food security

Keywords

genotypes, heritability, seed yield, variability

Conclusion

The evaluated genotypes exhibited considerable variability across all traits, with the highest variability observed in thousand seed weight and the lowest in days to maturity. Notably, heritability estimates were high for almost all traits, indicating a strong genetic influence on their expression. Furthermore, the genetic advance was particularly significant for test weight, the number of secondary branches per plant, and seed yield per plant. The results indicate a favourable additive gene action for traits such as number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, seed yield per plant and 1000 seed weight as evidenced by the high heritability and significant genetic advance observed. This suggests that these traits are primarily influenced by genetic factors, making them reliable targets for selection in breeding programs. By prioritizing the selection of these high-performing traits, breeders can develop new mustard varieties that not only enhance yield but also improve the efficiency of resource use and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. Such strategic breeding approaches will contribute significantly to the sustainability and productivity of mustard cultivation, ultimately benefiting farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole

References

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How to cite this article

Naresh, Ashok Kumar Dehinwal, Ram Avtar, Neeraj Kumar, Nisha Kumari, Mahavir Bishnoi and Rajbir Singh Khedwal (2024). Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(10): 38-41