Analysis of genetic parameters and correlations for physiological and quality characters in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss.]

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out to assess heritability, genetic advance and inter se associations of physiological, oil and seed meal quality characters in diverse accessions of Indian mustard. Significant mean sum of squares indicated genotypic differences for all the physiological and oil and seed meal quality characters investigated except protein content. Estimates of heritability and genetic advance were high for harvest index, specific leaf weight and total dry matter at 50% flowering suggesting the dominant role of additive gene action in their inheritance. The phenotypic and genotypic correlations of seed yield with biological yield/plant and harvest index were positive and significant indicating the usefulness of these characters in selection. Reduction in erucic acid would also bring forth correlated increase in oleic, linoleic and linolenic fatty acids owing to its negative associations with all the fatty acids except eicosenoic acid.