Genetic Variability for Seedling Traits in Indian Mustard under Moisture Stress Conditions

Eighty advanced progenies of Indian mustard derived from interspecific hybridization along with four check varieties were evaluated in an Augmented Randomized Complete Block Design with five blocks during rabi 2008–09. The data were subjected to obtain estimates of variability, heritability and genetic advance and correlations for different seed and seedling characteristics. Adequate variability was present for seed yield per plant, oil content, germination percentage, shoot length, root length, seedling elongation, fresh seedling weight and vigour index. Broad sense heritability was high (>50%) for all these characters. The seed yield per plant had positive and significant correlation with test weight, root length, seedling elongation and vigour index. On the basis of this study, it is suggested that test weight, root length, seedling elongation and vigour index should be considered in selection programme for yield improvement in the segregating material generated by using selected advance lines.