Multivariate analysis of some important quantitative traits in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) advanced lines

Abstract

Development of new rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) cultivars requires efficient tools to monitor traits
relationship in a breeding program. Twenty four rapeseed genotypes including 2 cultivars and 22 advanced
lines, were evaluated based on randomized complete block design with three replications. Significant
genotypes effects were exhibited for phenological traits, plant height, yield components, and seed yield,
indicating significant genetic differences among the genotypes. High broad sense heritability were estimated
for phenological traits, pods on main axis and, seed yield, signifying selection gain for improving these traits.
Duration of flowering and pods on main axis had high value of genetic coefficient of variation. The results of
factor analysis exhibited four factors including sink factor (pod per plant, pods length and seed yield), fixed
capital factor (phenological traits), secondary fixed capital factor (duration of flowering), and metric factor
(plant height). The results of stepwise regression analysis revealed that plant height and pods per plant
significantly had more decreasing and increasing effects respectivelyon seed yield. On the basis of cluster
analysis, the genotypes were classified in four groups, and the group with high seed yield had high mean value
of pods per plant.