Genetic studies of yield and yield component of Linseed (Linumu sitatissimum L.)

The phenotypic and genotypic variances, correlation and path coefficient, heritability and genetic advances were estimated for grain yield and yield traits in fourteen genotypes of linseed at Zonal Research Station (Birsa Agricultural University), Chianki during Rabi 2012-13. Phenotypic variance was greater than genotypic variance that indicates influence of environment on the traits studied. Heritability estimate values ranged from 0.36% for plant height to 0.97% for days maturity. High heritability estimates indicated that improvement may be made through selection. Genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded highest for seed yield per plant (86.76) followed by biological yield (57.67) and number of capsules per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean (>20%) was observed with seven yield components. Grain yield (g/plant) had significant and positive association with number of branches per plant, number of capsule per plant, 1000-seed weight, days to maturity and days to flowering both at genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, these traits may improve the breeding efficiency of linseed in the future breeding programs. Path analysis demonstrated that number of branches per plant, number of capsule per plant and 1000-seed weight had the positive direct effect in determining the seed yield in linseed. According to result, breeding for high grain yielding genotypes of linseed, number of capsule per plant should be given first and foremost importance followed by number of branches per plant, 1000-seed weight, and plant height.