Heterosis studies in pigeonpea hybrids based on male sterile lines

Twenty four pigeonpea hybrids derived from crosses between three genetic male sterile lines and eight diverse testers were evaluated to estimate heterosis over mid-parent and standard check (BDN 2). An appreciable amount of heterosis was noticed for almost all the characters. Significant heterotic effect over mid parent and check was recorded for seed yield per plant in the hybrid AKms 11 X AKT 9221 followed by AKms 11 X C11 and AKms 21 X C11. In view of the availability of genetic male sterility, the study revealed good scope for commercial exploitation of heterosis for seed yield and its components in pigeonpea.