Genetic variability, correlation, path coefficient and cluster analysis in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

Twenty-eight diverse mustard (Brassica juncea L.) genotypes were assessed for genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, trait association and genetic diversity based on 14 yield and its attributing traits during the Rabi 2023 at the Post Graduate Research Farm, School of Agriculture, LPU, Punjab. The study revelled significant differences among the mustard genotypes both in their genotypic and phenotypic level. Significant differences were observed in traits such as number of siliquae per plant, number of siliquae on the main stem, and seed yield per plant. Moreover, it is noteworthy to emphasize that a pronounced degree of heritability was founded for all traits except for days to maturity. Significant genetic advancements expressed as a percentage mean was observed for all attributes examined, except for days 50% flowering and maturity. Seed yield per individual plant manifested a substantial and positive genotypic correlation with the number of secondary branches per plant, 1000-seed weight, biological yield per individual plant, and the harvest index. Path analysis further elucidated that biological yield per individual plant and the harvest index exerted the most substantial positive direct effects on seed yield per plant. Based on these findings, the study suggests that choosing mustard genotypes based on these particular traits could lead to a more effective strategy for increasing overall yield. Additionally, genotypes grouped into distinct clusters with higher average values for seed yield and other essential characteristics present an attractive opportunity for inclusion in hybridization efforts aimed at producing superior offspring.

Keywords

• brassica
• heritability
• correlation
• path analysis
• diversity