DUS Characterization of Elite Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) Lines for Breeding and Varietal Differentiation

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a globally important legume crop valued for its protein-rich seeds and agronomic versatility. This study aimed to characterize 55 soybean genotypes using Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) descriptors to assess morphological diversity and identify traits relevant for breeding and varietal registration. A study conducted at the Seed Breeding farm JNKVV, Jabalpur, in kharif 2023 and kharif 2024, and 50 genotypes, in addition to 5 checks (JS 20-98, JS 20-34, JS 20-69, JS 335 and JS 20-116) were grown in RCBD.   Genotypes were evaluated for hypocotyl pigmentation, leaf morphology, pod pubescence and color, and seed attributes under field conditions. Highly polymorphic traits such as anthocyanin pigmentation, leaflet shape, and pod pubescence showed significant variation, offering reliable markers for parent selection and varietal differentiation. Growth habit was predominantly indeterminate, with limited representation of determinate types. Seed trait analysis revealed that 98.2% of genotypes had medium-sized seeds (10.1–13.0 g/100 seeds), and 70.9% exhibited spherical seed shapes were preferred for uniformity and processing. Yellow seed coats were dominant (94.5%), with 78.2% showing shiny lustre, enhancing market appeal and storability. Hilum color was predominantly black (70.9%), aiding in varietal classification. The observed uniformity in seed size and growth habit reflects current selection trends, while the diversity in pigmentation and pubescence traits highlighted untapped genetic variation. These findings support targeted hybridization and molecular mapping strategies for genetic improvement of soybean. Incorporating large-seeded and determinate type genotypes could broaden the breeding base and enhance adaptability. Breeding programs should integrate highly polymorphic morphological traits with market-preferred seed characteristics to develop resilient, high-yielding cultivars suited for diverse agro-climatic zones.