Dissection of Genetic Parameters for Enhancing Yield and Yield Components in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

A study was conducted to evaluate the genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance of 13 quantitative traits in 55 mustard (Brassica juncea) genotypes. The traits assessed included days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, primary branches per plant, siliqua per plant, siliqua length, seeds per siliqua, seed yield per plant, 1000-seed weight, relative water content, membrane stability index, proline content, and oil content. Significant genetic variation was observed for all traits. Moderate phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were noted for siliqua per plant and proline content. Both traits exhibited high heritability coupled with high genetic advance, indicating that additive gene action predominates. This suggests that selection for these traits could lead to substantial genetic gains in mustard breeding programs. In contrast, traits like days to 50% flowering and oil content showed lower genetic advance, suggesting limited scope for selection. The findings highlight the importance of focusing on traits with high variability and heritability for improving yield and stress tolerance in mustard.