Evaluation of Poppy Germplasm

In 75 indigenous and exotic cuitivars of opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.), a wide range of phenotypic and genetypic variation was observed in all the characters except for the number of capsules per plant. Heritability estimates and genetic advance were highest for leaf size. Heritability in leaf size and number is attributed to additive gene effects. More leaves of small size, larger capsule and more husk yield were desired in a model plant. This was supported by the morphological framework of the strains giving highest and lowest yields. These varieties could be grouped into 12 clusters and maximum number of varieties (40) were grouped in one of the clusters. Intracluster D² values ranged from 43.89 - 141.53 whereas interacluster D² values ranged from 156.89 -51001.5, Selected cuitivars from each of the clusters will throw out desired recombinants after making a successful hybridization programme.