Genetic analysis for yield and its components in mustard (Brassica spp.)

The nature of gene action in the inheritance of seed yield and its contributing traits in
three crosses of mustard (Kranti x PC-6, ACN-9 x PC-6, and TAM 108-1 x PC-6) was studied
using generation mean analysis. Six generations (P 1 , P 2 , F 1 , F 2 , BC 1 , BC 2 ) in each cross were
evaluated in a Randomized block design with three replications during 2022-23 Rabi season.
For crop improvement it is necessary to know the gene action governing various yield
contributing traits so appropriate breeding methods can be decided. Analysis of variance for
six generations revealed significant differences among the generations within cross for all
evaluated traits. Six parameter model (m, d, h, i, j, l) and scaling tests revealed the presence
of inter-allelic interactions (epistasis) for most of the yield and its contributing traits. Results
showed that both additive and non-additive types of gene action were significant in governing
the inheritance of the yield and it’s contributing traits. Hence on the basis of gene action
studied in case of duplicate epistasis, it is suggested that selection should be delayed until the
fixation of alleles. And in case of complementary epistasis, traits can be exploited through
heterosis breeding or biparental mating.