Superior Genotypes Research Articles

Recommendation of Tahiti acid lime cultivars through Bayesian probability models.

Probabilistic models enhance breeding, especially for the Tahiti acid lime, a fruit essential to fresh markets and industry. These models identify superior and persistent individuals using probability theory, providing a measure of uncertainty that can aid the recommendation. The objective of our study was to evaluate the use of a Bayesian probabilistic model for the recommendation of superior and persistent genotypes of Tahiti acid lime evaluated in 12 harvests. Leveraging the Monte Carlo Hamiltonian sampling algorithm, we calculated the probability of superior performance (superior genotypic value), and the probability of superior stability (reduced variance of the genotype-by-harvests interaction) of each genotype. The probability of superior stability was compared to a measure of persistence estimated from genotypic values predicted using a frequentist model. Our results demonstrated the applicability and advantages of the Bayesian probabilistic model, yielding similar parameters to those of the frequentist model, while providing further information about the probabilities associated with genotype performance and stability. Genotypes G15, G4, G18, and G11 emerged as the most superior in performance, whereas G24, G7, G13, and G3 were identified as the most stable. This study highlights the usefulness of Bayesian probabilistic models in the fruit trees cultivars recommendation.

Path Coefficient Analysis and Selection Index in Different Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes

Improving the grain yield in rice can be done more efficiently by selecting the yield components than selecting the grain yield itself, provided that these traits have a desirable genetic correlation with the grain yield trait. A field experiment was carried out in the rice research station in Al-Mashkhab/ Najaf/ IRAQ to determine the traits correlated with grain yield and to select the superior genotypes with their selection index among the sixteen genotypes planted during the growing season of 2021. During the 2022 season six genotypes were selected to evaluate the path coefficient analysis for the grain yield and its components according to randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. The results showed that the mean squares of the genotypes were significant for all studied traits(P<0.1). The superiority of the genotypes Furat1, Jasmine and K2 over the rest of six genotypes that were selected for having a high selection index, especially in the trait of grain yield, number of tillers.m-2 and number of grains.panicle-1. The genetic and phenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that there was a high direct effect of the yield components on the grain yield due to the high positive and desirable values of the genetic and phenotypic correlation between the grain yield and its components including the number of tillers.m-2, the number of grains.panicle-1 and the panicle length, which are selective indicators for improving grain yield. Furthermore, the aforementioned traits showed high values of heritability in the broad sense and good stability during the two study seasons. Thus, the characteristics of the number of tillers.m-2 and the number of grains per panicle can be considered as one of the best criteria to be adopted as a selection index in the breeding programs for the rice crop. Moreover, further investigations are required for these criteria at different experimental conditions in other to testing their efficiency.

The relation between apomictic seed production and morpho-physiological characteristics in a world collection of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.)

Ricinus communis is one of the most important oilseed plants with many medicinal and industrial applications. Variation in 30 genotypes of castor bean collected from different regions of the world was evaluated for two consecutive years and the difference in seed production with two different reproductive modes (including apomixis and open-pollination) was compared based on yield components, agronomic traits, and phytochemical properties. Results of data analysis demonstrated that castor bean has the ability for a wide range of apomixis for seed production and the highest percentages of apomixis ability in the first and second years were 86.3% and 92.31%, respectively. Apomixis ability had a high positive correlation with yield components, seed oil content, and the amount of leaf rutin. Two genotypes from Brazil and Syria revealed the highest phenolic content in the first and second years, respectively. In addition, the Afghanistan genotype in two modes of apomixis and open-pollination in the first year and the Syria and Yazd genotypes in apomixis and open-pollination modes, respectively, in the second year showed the highest content of seed fatty acids. It is possible to maintain superior genotypes of castor bean in terms of phytochemical traits, yield, and oil quality through apomixis reproduction.

Estimating phenotypic stability for relevant yield and quality traits in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) using AMMI analysis

The presence of strong G x E (genotype by environment interaction) is a major hurdle for selecting superior genotypes when genotypes are placed into new and unfamiliar production systems. Genotype or cultivar (s) with high yield potential and having less adaptability and stability to particular environment is never a suitable choice for a breeder and farmer particularly. Purposefully, four successive seasons were chosen to enumerate the phenotypic stability of 27 French bean genotypes for yield and quality traits by involving modern statistical tools like AMMI (Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction), GGE [G + (G x E)] and cluster analysis. AMMI analysis of variance witnessed magnitude of G, E and G x E was 81.94%, 11.58% and 6.48% of the total variation respectively. The IPCA I (Interaction Principal Component Axes) was contributed with 55.44%, 73.60%, 71.81%, 81.69% and 72.16% G x E variations of days to 50% flowering, pod length, number of pods per plant, average pod weight and pod yield respectively. For qualitative traits i.e., protein content (mg/100g FW), total soluble solids (%) and total phenol content (mg GAE/g FW) the involvement of IPCA I to total genotype by environment interaction variations were 89.55%, 96.07% and 66.52% respectively. The AMMI biplot revealed French bean genotypes viz., IC632961, Arka Sukomal, IIHR-PV-29, IIHR-PV-30 having low AMMI stability value and higher mean value for relevant yield and quality traits in both late kharif and rabi as two mega-environments. Multivariate analysis demonstrated significant higher contribution of pod yield associated traits towards total variations and positive correlation between them. The 27 French bean genotypes formed five groups as per Euclidean distance and the clustering revealed the nature of diversity of French bean genotypes viz., IC 632961, IIHR-B-PV-24, Arka Sukomal, Arka Arjun, Ayoka and Phalguni in response to changing environments and can be utilized in future breeding programme. The study revealed pole type French bean genotypes viz., IC 632961, Arka Sukomal and bush type French bean genotypes viz., IIHR-B-PV-29, IIHR-B-PV-30 could be promising for utilization in future breeding programmes for the concerned traits.

Phenological growth stages of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton): Detailed identification and description using the extended BBCH scale

AbstractCardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton) is an important spice crop with high market value. In this study, we describe the phenological growth stages of cardamom using a three‐digit extended Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und CHemische Industrie (BBCH) scale, which includes eight principal growth stages, comprising four vegetative, two reproductive and two capsule development stages. Additionally, we identified 45 secondary stages within these principal growth stages, providing a comprehensive characterisation of the crop's growth progression, including bud development, leaf emergence, tillering and shoot development, while the reproductive stages included inflorescence emergence and flowering. The capsule development stage details the maturation process of capsules. The study also highlights the parallel occurrence of tillering, shoot development and inflorescence emergence stages during specific growth phases. The knowledge of growth stages facilitates timely interventions, optimising crop management strategies and enhancing overall crop productivity. Additionally, these findings offer valuable insights for breeding programmes and the selection of superior genotypes, contributing to the sustainable cultivation and economic viability of cardamom as an important export‐oriented spice crop.Highlights BBCH scale provides uniform coding for different growth stages of cardamom. Identified and described eight principal growth stages (PGS). PGS comprises of 4 vegetative, 2 reproductive and 2 capsule development stages. 45 secondary stages were identified within 8 principal growth stages. Tillering, shoot development and inflorescence emergence occurs parallelly.

Evaluation of Kokum [Garcinia indica (Thouars) Choisy] Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters under the Humid Tropical Conditions of Central Kerala

A study was conducted at the Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, to assess morphological, yield, and biochemical parameters of 29 kokum genotypes. Observations regarding growth, yield, and quality parameters were recorded for all the genotypes. The results showed that genotype IC136687-1 exhibited the highest height (15.60 m), while genotype IC552513 had the lowest height (5.20 m). The highest plant girth was observed in ACC.FSC-1 (156.88 cm), whereas the lowest girth was recorded in IC552522 (25.10 cm). The canopy spread of trees varied from 3.20 m (IC552513) to 8.10 m (ACC.FSC-4) in the East to West direction, and from 3.30 m (IC552513) to 9.42 m (ACC.FSC-9) in the North to South direction. The maximum canopy volume was found in ACC.FSC-9 (1030.01 m3), whereas the minimum volume was observed in IC552513 (57.12 m3). Leaf length ranged from 7.5 cm to 10.24 cm, leaf breadth varied from 3.18 cm to 4.78 cm and leaf area varied from 19.87 cm2 to 34.53 cm2 among different genotypes. Significant difference was recorded with respect to fruit characters among the yielding genotypes. Genotype ACC.FSC-6 exhibited significantly higher fruit weight (40.14 g), fruit volume (45.60 cm³), fresh weight of rind (21.01 g), and dry weight of rind (3.07 g). Conversely, genotype ACC.FSC-3 displayed significantly lower fruit weight (12.17 g), fruit volume (15.10 cm³), fresh weight of rind (7.15 g), and dry weight of rind (1.09 g). The rind to seed ratio ranged from 0.81 to 1.77, while rind thickness varied between 2.46 mm and 3.41 mm. Genotype ACC.FSC-9 exhibited the highest number of fruits per tree (2258) and the highest fruit yield per tree (60.64 kg). On the other hand, genotype ACC.FSC-3 recorded the lowest number of fruits per tree (252) and the lowest fruit yield per tree (3.07 kg). The moisture content varied from 82.91 % to 90.34 %, titratable acidity ranged from 2.30 % to 4.47 %, total sugars ranged from 4.32 % to 10.60 %, TSS ranged from 5.65 °B to 14.15 °B, and anthocyanin content ranged from 11.13 to 25.01 mg per 100 g. Genotypes IC552528-3 and IC336687-3 had significantly high TSS and low acidity were ranked as superior quality genotypes and these genotypes can be utilized for value addition.

Genetic diversity, correlation and genotype × yield × trait (GYT) analysis of grain yield and nutritional quality traits in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) genotypes in Tigray, northern Ethiopia

Selecting sorghum genotypes with higher grain yield and nutritional quality is essential to tackle food insecurity and malnutrition in arid and semi-arid areas. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the genetic diversity, trait association and genotype by yield by trait (GYT) analysis and to select superior sorghum genotypes. One hundred and ten sorghum genotypes were evaluated at three locations in Tigray during the 2018 and 2019 growing seasons using alpha lattice design. Traits such as grain yield, protein content, ash content, starch content, zinc content, iron content, calcium content and magnesium content were profiled. Results showed that wide range and highly significant (p < 0.001) genotype mean performance in each environment as well as combined environments. Several highly performing genotypes were distinguished for each trait studied that could be exploited as breeding parents or direct use. This study further detected highly significant variation (p < 0.001) among the test genotypes for all the traits studied in individual environments and across environments suggesting the presence of sufficient genetic diversity for selection. The high broad-sense heritability (H2 > 0.9) in all individual environments and moderate to high (H2 > 0.0.41 < 0.82) in pooled environments recorded in the present study assured the possibility of effective selection among the genotypes. Besides, strong positive and negative associations were detected between some of the traits in individual and across environments. The significant positive association between traits indicates that both the traits can be improved concurrently through direct selection. Using the GYT analysis, we suggest ten promising sorghum genotypes for direct use or breeding programs in arid and semi-arid areas in general and in Tigray in particular.

THE CONTRIBUTION OF TRANSGENIC RICE TO ENHANCE GRAIN YIELD

Breeders' main goal is to increase the proportion of high-quality rice produced overall. To create effective rice breeding strategies, possible yield-related loci have been mined. many researchers are using transgenic strategies as cutting-edge methods to increase rice productivity. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) play a pivotal role in governing grain yield in Oryza sativa L., commonly known as rice. The genes contributing to QTLs that determine grain size, length, and weight have been successfully identified. Numerous genes are upregulated to enhance the overall yield of rice. Recent advancements have led to the discovery of genes and QTLs specifically associated with rice yield. Through an in-depth analysis of various yield characteristics, including grain weight, thousand grain weight, grain length, grain width, grain yield per plant, grain number per panicle, and panicles per plant, we conducted a comprehensive review using extensive literature research and public domain databases. Additionally, we explored the progress made in transgenic technology and advanced genomic techniques. The compiled information on genes and QTLs related to yield enhancement aims to provide a valuable resource. The integrated analysis of existing data on genes and/or QTLs provide evidence on potential combinations for creating superior genotypes that combine high yield across multiple traits. Integration of molecular markers, transgenic techniques and conventional breeding as discussed in this extensive review opens up the prospect of developing high yielding rice varieties

Genetic Variability Studies in Yellow Seeded Linseed

The experimental materials consisted of 40 yellow seeded genotypes of linseed taken from “AICRP on linseed, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, IGKV, Raipur”, Chhattisgarh, India along with one check variety Surabhi. Seed yield is an important trait and the cumulative result of a number of component traits controlled by polygenes and influenced greatly by the environmental factors. Hence, yield alone would not be effective for selection of superior genotypes. In order to make the selection effective one has to give emphasis on the yield attributing traits. According to analysis of variance, “significant differences exist for all the parameters investigated from yellow seeded linseed genotypes.” It demonstrates that the yellow seeded genotypes of linseed have sufficient variability in seed yield and contributing characteristics. 1000 Seed weight (7.7g) and seed yield (15g) were the highest in the YLS-31 and YLS-23 genotypes, respectively. The highest GCV was found in number of secondary branches per plant (39.5%) followed by seed yield (32.1%), harvest index (21.6%), and number of primary branches per plant (24.3%). The highest PCV was found in the number of primary branches per plant (47%). Number of secondary branches per plant (43.2%), 1000 seed weight (37.9%), number of capsules per plant (33.9%) and harvest index (22.8%) were the next most important factor.

Fusing Genotype and Soil Organic/Inorganic Amendment to Improve Saline-sodic Properties and Rice Productivity

Soil salinization and sodification have become a considerable threat to sustainable crop production for food security. The efficient biological practice in rice cropping systems, besides modulating saline-sodic soil properties using different amendments, is a necessary tactic to accelerate reclamation. This research aimed to evaluate the potential ameliorative effect of seven organic/inorganic amendments addition on soil properties and the differential responses of three rice genotypes under saline-sodic soil conditions at north of Egypt. A 2-year (2019 and 2020) field experiment was conducted with three rice genotypes, viz., Sakha 106, Giza 179, and Egyptian hybrid rice 1 (EHR1) cultivated in saline-sodic-affected soil amended with seven organic/inorganic amendments, i.e., gypsum, rice straw compost (RSC), farmyard manure (FYM), sulfur, sulfuric acid, calcium superphosphate, and rice husk beside control (unamended soil). This experimental design was a two-factor strip plot with randomized complete blocks with four replications. The morpho-physiological (SPADchlorophyll, water content, leaf area index, and shoot dry weight) and biochemical (catalase (CAT) activity, proline content, carbohydrates, leaf sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+), and Na+/K+ ratio) responses, the associated soil physico-chemical and microbial properties, yield, and its components were determined. RSC, gypsum, or sulfur were the most effective amendments in ameliorating saline-sodic soil properties by significantly reducing electrical conductivity, bulk density, and pH compared to the control and initial soil. Gypsum, RSC, FYM, or sulfur amendments significantly decreased the soil Na+ by 14.2, 11.7, 9.1, and 8.3%; sodium adsorption ratio by 14.9, 12.6, 10.4, and 8.7%; and exchangeable sodium percentage by 13.5, 11.5, 9.3, and 8.2%, respectively, over both seasons compared with control. The organic amendments surpassed inorganic regarding microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration rate, and dehydrogenase activity with the superiority of RSC, FYM, and rice husk over the control treatment. These soil restorations were favorably reflected in morpho-physio-biochemical parameters, yield, and its components for all the tested rice genotypes. The EHR1 is the superior genotype in terms of ion (Na+ and K+) selectivity, CAT activity, possessing lower proline and higher morpho-physiological responses, and productivity. The EHR1 had a considerable physiological effect on saline-sodic soil stress, producing higher yield (7.70 and 7.50 t ha−1) after treating with RSC or gypsum. This indicates that RSC outperforms other amendments in improving saline-sodic soils and enhancing rice productivity. Overall, a single application of rice straw compost (organic amendment) and gypsum or sulfur (inorganic amendment) is a viable sustainable approach for modulating saline-sodic soil’s physico-chemical and microbial properties and for boosting rice’s agronomic and physiological responses in an arid environment.

Selection of superior bread wheat genotypes based on grain yield, protein, iron and zinc contents under normal irrigation and terminal drought stress conditions

The selection of high-yielding genotypes with high micronutrient and protein contents can play a major role in reducing protein-energy and micronutrient malnutrition. In this study, 20 bread wheat genotypes were examined under normal irrigation and end-season water deficit stress conditions. The grain yield (GY), thousand-kernel weight (TKW), protein (PR), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) contents were determined. The data were analyzed using the genotype by yield*trait (GYT) biplot method, and the superiority index was calculated from the integration of all yield-trait combinations. According to the results, the polygon view of GYT biplot under normal irrigation conditions showed that G20 was the best genotype in combining GY with TKW and PR contents. The G19 was the best genotype in combining GY with Fe and Zn contents. Under end-season water deficit stress, G20 was the best genotype in combining GY with TKW and Fe content. In addition, the G6 was the best genotype in combining GY with PR and Zn. The average tester coordinate (ATC) view of GYT biplot showed that there is not any genotype that was higher than the average yield-trait combination. However, G20 and G19 were relatively superior to other genotypes in this study. According to the superiority index, G20 and G19 genotypes were superior. Based on our results, G20, G19, and G6 genotypes were the best genotypes in combining GY with all or some evaluated traits, in two conditions. Therefore, they can be considered in genetic biofortification programs or variety introduction.

Genetic parameter changes and age−age correlations in Pinus koraiensis growth over 40-year progeny testing

BackgroundEarly selection in tree breeding could be achieved by addressing the longevity of tree improvement activities. Genetic parameter changes and age–age correlations are essential for determining the optimal timing of early selection. Practical tracking of genetic parameters of Pinus koraiensis, a major timber species with economic and ecological value, has become feasible as its progeny testing has entered the mid-term age in Korea. However, research on the age−age correlation of P. koraiensis as progeny trials approach rotation age is limited. This study aimed to investigate genetic parameter trends and age−age correlations in P. koraiensis progeny. P. koraiensis progeny were assessed at two sites using a linear mixed-effects model with two-dimensional spatial autoregressive structure. Height, diameter, and volume growth were measured in 11 assessments over 40 years.ResultsGenetic parameters, such as height and diameter, showed different patterns of change. The heritability ranged for the three growth traits in 0.083–0.710, 0.288–0.781, and 0.299–0.755 across the sites and age. Height heritability and its coefficient of variance decreased, whereas the diameter and volume estimates remained relatively constant. Correlations with Age 40 for phenotypic, genetic, and rank of breeding values ranged between 0.16 and 0.92, 0.594 and 0.988, and 0.412 and 0.965, respectively. These correlations generally increased as the age approached Age 40, with particularly high levels observed at Age 26 and Age 30.ConclusionThe observed genetic trends in P. koraiensis progeny testing offer valuable insights for early and precise selection. Notably, selecting superior genotypes at Ages 26–30 is supported by discernible genetic gains and robust correlations. Future research should integrate unbalanced data for selecting mother trees or families and conduct a comprehensive economic analysis of early selection to validate its practical benefits.

Characterization of Coloured Sorghum Genotypes for Qualitative and Quantitative Characters

The experiment was conducted at College of Agriculture, Raichur, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India during October 2021–Februrary 2022 to characterize the 100-coloured sorghum genotypes along with four checks viz., M 35-1, AKJ 1, Paiyur 2 and GS-23 for eight qualitative characters and 10 quantitative characters in an augmented block design. The results revealed that, majority of the genotypes exhibited the pigmented stem (93%) and leaves almost green (61%) at harvest, horizontal flag leaf orientation (100%), loose erect primary branches of panicle (38%), black glumes (58%), red grain colour (36%), circular grain shape (75%) and freely threshable (93%) characters. For all the quantitative characters studied, a wide range of variation was observed. For stay green character, genotype IS 21868 showed completely green leaves. Similarly, for other characters also superior genotypes were identified in this study. Such genotypes can be used further in improvement of sorghum for its grain yield. For grain yield, 14 genotypes exhibited higher yields when compared to the best check GS-23, viz., IS 29032 (120.0 g), IS 6508 (119.18 g), IS 16006 (113.80 g), IS 28065 (102.88 g), IS 23890 (94.88 g), IS 28049 (94.28 g), IS 23865 (89.48 g), IS 29031 (87.98), IS 28202 (87.88), IS 31706 (86.48), IS 2582 (85.88 g), IS 28200 (83.58), IS 16398 (81.08 g) and IS 23955 (80.0 g). Eight genotypes were on par with GS-23. These genotypes can be further evaluated for its yield stability within and across locations.

Effects of seed treatment on cassava stake performance, whitefly population, disease incidence, and yield performance of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in Malawi

IntroductionWhitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is a pest of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and the vector for two of the crop’s major viral diseases – cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava brown streak disease (CBSD), causing severe economic losses for farmers. In this context, we conducted an on-farm experiment to study the efficiency of a seed treatment technology containing thiamethoxam, fludioxonil, and metalaxyl for rapid multiplication of superior cassava genotypes and early protection of the crop against whitefly at Salima and Nkhotakota, central Malawi in the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 cropping seasons, respectively.MethodsThe trials were conducted using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The effect of the application of the seed treatment on stake germination, whitefly population, CMD and CBSD incidences, and stem and storage root yields of three cassava varieties (Kalawe, Mbundumali, and Sauti) at three stake sizes (8 cm, 16 cm, and 25 cm) was compared with control – a 25 cm stake size of each of the cassava variety without seed treatment. A benefit-cost analysis was conducted to determine the profitability of the seed treatment technology for each stake size under certified and non-certified stem scenarios.Results and discussionRegardless of stake size and variety, plant germination was highest (96% by 16%) and mean whitefly population lowest (adult 0.4 vs. 3.0 plant-1; nymph 1.0 vs. 3.3 plant-1) with seed treatment application than without. Disease incidence measurements showed no significant effect of seed treatment on CBSD control (p = 0.31), but it reduced CMD incidence by 17% vs. 20% in the untreated. Stem and storage root yields across stake size and cassava variety were highest with seed treatment; 489 bundles ha-1 and 10 (DM) Mg ha-1, respectively. Using the 8 cm stake regardless of variety resulted in the highest average benefit-cost ratio for certified (18.3 USD USD-1) and non-certified (7.8 USD USD-1) cassava stem scenarios.ConclusionWe conclude that the application of the seed treatment tested in this study would offer protection to planted stakes, increase their germination, reduce whitefly population, increase stem and storage root yields in areas experiencing whitefly pressure, and result in high economic profits.

Review of applications of artificial intelligence (AI) methods in crop research.

Sophisticated and modern crop improvement techniques can bridge the gap for feeding the ever-increasing population. Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, which refers to the application of computational algorithms, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques. This is aimed to generalise patterns and relationships from historical data, employing various mathematical optimisation techniques thus making prediction models for facilitating selection of superior genotypes. These techniques are less resource intensive and can solve the problem based on the analysis of large-scale phenotypic datasets. ML for genomic selection (GS) uses high-throughput genotyping technologies to gather genetic information on a large number of markers across the genome. The prediction of GS models is based on the mathematical relation between genotypic and phenotypic data from the training population. ML techniques have emerged as powerful tools for genome editing through analysing large-scale genomic data and facilitating the development of accurate prediction models. Precise phenotyping is a prerequisite to advance crop breeding for solving agricultural production-related issues. ML algorithms can solve this problem through generating predictive models, based on the analysis of large-scale phenotypic datasets. DL models also have the potential reliability of precise phenotyping. This review provides a comprehensive overview on various ML and DL models, their applications, potential to enhance the efficiency, specificity and safety towards advanced crop improvement protocols such as genomic selection, genome editing, along with phenotypic prediction to promote accelerated breeding.

Characterization of ambarella (&lt;i&gt;Spondias dulcis&lt;/i&gt;) genotypes based on morphological and physio-biochemical quality attributes

Survey and characterization of ambarella found in valley region of Manipur was conducted during 2022–23 to identified superior genotypes for yield and various physio-biochemical characters having sweeter taste and high yield traits. Genotype P7 gave maximum yield (147.10 kg/tree) and P19 has maximum fruit weight (158.50 g), length (7.09 cm) and width (6.65 cm). However, genotypes P17 has highest TSS (170Brix), total sugar (6.84%), P7 highest vitamin C (40.81 mg/100 g) and P19 gave highest vitamin A content (0.62 mg/100 g). Hence, genetic diversity of ambarella was observed among the selected genotypes in valley region of Manipur for screening elite genotypes for the future.

Efficient In Vitro Platform for Multiplication, Acclimatization, and Deliver of High-NaCl-Tolerant Clones of the Halophyte Arthrocaulon macrostachyum

Halophytes are species able to grow and complete their life cycle under NaCl concentrations above 0.2 M. In a context of growing population and uncertain agricultural food sustainability, there is an interest on halophytes as potential source of food and fodder. However, scarce research has addressed in vitro propagation of halophytes as a tool for study, conservation, and propagation of elite germplasm. In this study, an efficient method for micropropagation of the succulent and salt accumulator halophyte Arthrocaulon macrostachyum has been established for the first time, using shoot tips from in vitro-germinated plant material. During shoot multiplication stage, superior genotypes were selected from explants grown in high strength and NaCl content medium and subsequently rooted and acclimatized to ex vitro conditions. A comprehensive characterization including determination of oxidative stress, photosynthesis performance, and mineral nutrient contents was done. This research gains insight into the physiological and biochemical characterization of halophytes during micropropagation and provides a solid platform for the production of elite A. macrostachyum germplasm for ulterior uses.

Stability Analysis for Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Seed Yield in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes

Background: Mungbean is a versatile legume crop grown in various cropping systems. Despite its adaptability, the yield is hindered by the low yielding capacity of undifferentiated varieties and their limited ability to fix nitrogen. The current study aims to identify stable genotypes through continuous cultivation in eight different environments over two years. Methods: To assess the stability for BNF and seed yield, twenty-five mungbean genotypes were measured at eight diverse agro-ecological conditions, represented as two different seasons during spring and summer in two consecutive years (2016 and 2017) at two locations - TCA, Dholi, Muzaffarpur and Pusa Farm, RPCAU, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar. To evaluate the most stable and superior genotypes, three parameters, viz., , bi and S2di were calculated. Result: There is a substantial amount of variability across genotypes and environments, as shown by the pooled analysis of variance. The genotype, Pusa 11-31 had shown regression near to unity, comprised with non-significant standard deviation along with higher mean seed yield and biological nitrogen fixation indicates that this is the most stable genotypes for the above traits.

Multi-Trait Selection Index for Simultaneous Selection of Water Yam (Dioscorea alata L.) Genotypes

Water yam (Dioscorea alata L.) is the most widely cultivated yam species with good agronomic attributes. However, several biotic and abiotic constraints and its lower food quality such as poor pound ability limit its production and use. Therefore, the identification of superior genotypes with suitable characteristics is needed for water yam improvement. This study aims to assess a panel of half-sib (progenies with one parent in common) and full-sib (progenies with the same male and female parents) progenies as well as their parents for selection of desirable ideotypes based on their agronomic and quality characteristics. A total of 280 progenies from bi-parental populations as well as five parents were evaluated, and a significant variation was observed (p &lt; 0.01) in their performances for the eight traits used in the study. A moderate to high broad-sense heritability (30% &lt; H2–H2 ≥ 60%) was observed for all traits except for tuber pound ability (H2 &lt; 30%). Positive correlations were displayed between the traits, while the hierarchical clustering grouped genotypes into three clusters indicating the potential for selection of diverse genotypes for multiple traits from the four families under study. Plant vigor and number of tubers per plant contributed (p &lt; 0.01) positively to the yield per plant in the path coefficient analysis. Using the multi-trait genotype–ideotype distance index (MGIDI), a total of 39 most promising genotypes were identified. These promising genotypes could be further used as progenitors in D. alata improvement programs targeting good agronomic and quality traits targeted for farmers and end users.

Identification of superior hybrid clones for fibre biometry in Eucalyptus camaldulensis × E. tereticornis using multi trait stability index

Abstract Genotype × environment (G×E) interaction is a major challenge in selecting superior genotypes based on growth traits in Eucalyptus since phenotypic variability is significantly affected by environmental heterogeneity. The aim of the present investigation was to understand the relationship between wood property traits and fibre biometry in the bi-parental mapping population of E. camaldulensis × E. tereticornis across three locations and identify stable genotypes based on multiple traits to improve prediction accuracy in breeding programs. High broad-sense heritability was documented for fibre parameters indicating a good prospect of these traits for genotype selection in hybrid breeding programmes in Eucalyptus. Significant positive correlation of fibre parameters with cellulose, acoustic velocity, DMoE and negative correlation with lignin reiterate that the fibre traits can be improved by the selection of genotype for improved wood property traits. Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI) and weighted average of absolute scores of the genotype index (WAASB) short-listed four genotypes (C343, C327, C246 and C161) with improved wood property traits and the mean of selected genotypes for all traits was significantly higher than the grand mean of the overall genotypes. The identified superior and stable genotypes with improved wood properties and fibre biometry can be used in plantation programs or as genitors in breeding programs.