Improvement in pod yield related characters of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench.) genotypes through biparental crosses Srivastav Mohita1, Kathayat Khushboo1, Kotiyal Amit1,*, Talekar Nilesh2 1Department of Horticulture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara-144411, India 2Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara-144411, India *E-Mail: amkoti@gmail.com
Online Published on 22 January, 2024. Abstract Okra is the most labour-intensive monsoon vegetable crop, and it faces significant threats from weather patterns. A total of sixteen F1 crossings were employed in this study, following a mating strategy of L × T, where four lines and four testers were used. The objective was to assess the combining ability and heterosis for nine variables related to pod yield quality. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the most promising combinations for future breeding endeavors. The results revealed statistically significant variations across all the variables examined, except for pod diameter in the lines. Significant values were observed for various traits in the case of tests, including plant height, days to first flowering, days to first fruit set, days to first fruit picking, number of pods per plant, pod length, average weight of pods, and pod yield per plant. The parental lines, namely EC 169470, IC 128024, Kashi Pragati, and Arka Anamika, were determined to be effective general combiners in terms of single plant yield. Therefore, it is possible to exploit these parents through the practice of pedigree breeding to achieve improved recombinants through selective breeding in subsequent generations. The hybrids IC 128024 × Kahi Lalima, IC 128024 Kashi Kranti, and IC 128028 × Kashi Pragati were determined to be the most favorable combiners based on the outcomes of standard heterosis, GCA and SCA effects. These hybrids exhibit promising potential for utilization in future breeding endeavors. Top Keywords Okra, GCA, SCA, Heterosis, Gene action. Top |