Line × Tester analysis for quantitative traits in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

This study identified the best parents and F1 hybrids on the basis of general, specific combining ability and high
heterotic performance for yield characters, involving crosses of five Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) lines female
parent (lines) and three male parent (testers), in line x tester mating design. The analysis of variance revealed significant
differences for all genotypes for all characters studied, indicating sufficient genetic variability for all the characters. On
the basis of per se performance and estimates of heterosis, the crosses Geeta x IC-571678, Maya x IC-571649 and Maya
x IC-571668 were most promising hybrids for seed yield/plant. The comparative variances due to general combining
ability revealed that the highest positive significant effect for the traits biological yield/plant followed by number of
siliqua/plant and test weight. Parent Geeta was found to be the best combiner for seed yield with significant and positive
GCA effect. Out of fifteen, four cross combination shows positive significant SCA effect for seed yield/plant (g) trait. The
best SCA effect was seen in cross combination Maya x IC-571649 and Geeta x IC 571668 has been recorded best specific
combiner for seed yield.