Assessment of variability parameters and character association for quantitative traits in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)

Ninety five diverse genotypes of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss] were evaluated foryield and other quantitative traits during the rabi season of 2009–10. The mean, range, phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability in broad sense and genetic gain were calculated. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits studied. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance for 1000-seed weight and siliquae plant-¹ would be helpful for indirect selection for improvement in seed yield. In this study, seed yield plant-¹ was positively correlated with plant height, number of primary branches plant-¹, number of secondary branches plant-¹, siliquae plant-¹, seeds siliqua⁻¹ and 1000-seed weight. The maximum direct effect for seed yield plant-¹ was observed by 1000-seed weight, followed by seeds siliqua⁻¹, siliquae plant-¹, days to 50% flowering, number of secondary branches plant-¹ and days to maturity.