A Siva Sankar

Genetic Divergence Studies for Yield Components and Root Traits in Castor (Ricinus communis L.)

Magnitude of genetic divergence among 27 castor accessions was studied to identify diverse parents. Genotypes were characterized for physiological, morphological and root traits in an elevated root structure. Study identified seven clusters. Cluster means for traits showed considerable differences. Highest inter-cluster distance was found between clusters I and IV. Cluster I had highest variance for eight characters. Cluster II recorded the highest intra cluster distance. Seed yield recorded maximum divergence of 31.91% while root length, total root length, diameter, laterals and weight together contributed to 8.54% and showed significant correlation. The probability of obtaining better segregants and recombinants is expected when SKI-215, PCS-106 of cluster VII and II as females and Haritha, Kranthi, Kiran of cluster I can be used as male parents. Haritha, RG 48, Kranthi and SKI 215 which showed superior root and shoot characters, can be candidates in breeding for drought tolerance.