Evaluation of Castor (Ricinus communis L.) Germplasm for Water Use Efficiency (WUE) and Root Characters

Abstract

Sixty-four germplasm lines were sown in two root structures (30 m length, 1.5 m height and 2.4 m width on either side of central 30 cm permanent wall), thirty-two genotypes per structure replicated twice during 2006–07 at Narkhoda research farm of Directorate of Oilseeds Research, Hyderabad. Plants were grown for 100 days and observations on water use efficiency (WUE) traits, root characters and total dry matter (TDM) were recorded. Root length, root volume, root dry weight and leaf area index (LAI) showed strong positive correlation with TDM, hence lines with better root characters and TDM are considered as best lines for WUE and root characters. Fifteen lines showed root length of >195 cm, root volume of >200 cm3, root dry weight of >35 g, LAI >2.0 and TDM >250 g/plant. These lines include RG 82, RG 89, RG 122, RG 152, RG 211, RG 240, RG 272, RG 282, RG 298, RG 539, RG 627, RG 786, RG 941, RG 1667 and RG 2048.