Genetics of qualitative traits in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Abstract

The genetics of inheritance of traits and their nature is important for selection of proper breeding strategy for the improvement of valuable traits of interest in linseed. The inheritance pattern of qualitative traits was studied in F2 generation for a cross between RLC-95 x Indira alsi-32 and Surabhi x RLC-92. Their gene interaction ratios were worked out using chi-square test. The chi-square ratio of 3:1 was obtained for flower colour, growth habit and dehiscence for both the crosses representing the typical monohybrid ratio and that for shape of corolla and anther colour for both the crosses was 9:3:4 reflecting the presence of supplementary gene action for these characters. A chi-square ratio of 9:6:1 was obtained for flower aestivation for both the crosses signifying polymeric gene action. The chi-square ratio had a difference among both the populations for capsule size showing a ratio of 9:6:1 for first population derived from the cross RLC-95 x Indira alsi-32 indicating polymeric gene action and a ratio of 1:2:1 for second population derived from the cross Surabhi x RLC-92. Flower venation showed a ratio of 9:3:4 for first population (RLC-95 x Indira alsi-32) indicating supplementary gene action and a ratio of 12:3:1 for second population (Surabhi x RLC-92) indicating masking gene action.

Keywords

• linseed
• genetics
• gene action
• chi-square