Genetic Architecture and Multivariate Dissection of Yield and Phytonutrient Traits Reveals Additive Gene Effects and Productivity–Quality Trade-Off in Some Swamp Taro (Colocasia esculenta var stolonifera) Genotypes

Abstract

The present study was carried out during 2021 to 2023 at the AICRP tuber crops Kalyani centre (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vidswavidyalaysa) to access high yield and high-quality swamp taro genotypes having better starch, protein, ascorbic acid, total phenol and beta carotene. A total of nine genotypes collected from different state of north eastern India grown under the water-logged condition were evaluated using randomised block design with three replications. The data collected underwent through statistical analyses, encompassing genetic variability, analysis of variance, heritability, genetic advance, principal component and clustering. The results revealed significant variation among the selected genotype in term of yield related parameters like yield per plant, stolon length and biochemical properties like starch, crude protein, total phenol and beta carotene. Post-evaluation characterization of nine genotypes identified BCST-5 as most suitable for general commercial cultivation due to superior yield and quality traits. BCST-13 and BCST-14 were optimal for industrial processing, genotypes BCST-3 and CAUST-1 for nutritional quality, and BCST-3 for protein enhancement breeding. PCA indicated that crosses between genotypes at opposite PC1 extremes could produce transgressive segregants. Cluster analysis revealed two major clusters, with the probable most promising crosses being BCST-5, CAUST-1 and BCST-14, AAUST-3 for combining productivity and nutritional traits. Overall, the study successfully identified superior swamp taro genotypes and strategic combinations that can be effectively utilized for enhancing yield, processing quality, and nutritional value under water-logged conditions.