Trait-based genetic diversity assessment for strategic breeding in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss)
60 / 25
Authors
-
Ashok Kumar Meena
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner 303 328, Rajasthan, India
Author
-
SS Rajput
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner 303 328, Rajasthan, India
Author
-
Ashish Sheera
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner 303 328, Rajasthan, India
Author
-
Pooja Kanwar Shekhawat
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner 303 328, Rajasthan, India
Author
Keywords:
Cluster analysis, D2 statistics, inter and intra cluster distance, genetic divergenceAbstract
An investigation was conducted to assess the extent and nature of genetic diversity among 36 genotypes of Indian
mustard (Brassica juncea), comprising eight parental lines and 28 F1
hybrids using Mahalanobis D² statistics. The
presence of genetic diversity among genotypes offers significant potential for their utilization in breeding programs
aimed at improving yield and related agronomic traits. Cluster analysis grouped the 36 genotypes into eight distinct
clusters. Cluster II was the largest, containing nine genotypes followed by Clusters I, III and VII, each comprising five
genotypes. The distribution of genotypes across clusters appeared to be random and did not correspond to their
geographical origin or region of adaptation. The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between Clusters I and VII
(5.79) followed by Clusters IV and V (5.73) indicating a high degree of genetic divergence between these groups. Among
the intra-cluster distances, Cluster VIII showed the highest value (5.21) followed by Cluster II (4.79) suggesting that
genotypes within these clusters also possess considerable variability. Therefore, hybridization among genotypes within
or between these divergent clusters may result in promising cross combinations. Based on cluster mean values, genotypes
grouped in Clusters VIII, II and VI are particularly noteworthy and may be considered as potential parents in future
hybridization programs aimed at developing high-yielding varieties of Indian mustard.
Downloads
