Assessment of variability parameters for germination and seedling traits in mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under salinity stress condition

Abstract

The experiment investigates the effects salinity on seed germination and seedling characteristics of ten diverse genotypes of Brassica juncea L. The genotypes were evaluated at four levels of salinity based on electric conductivities (ECs) viz. 0.0 EC, 6 EC, 10 EC and 12 EC in completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Twelve parameters were recorded on germination percent (%), shoot length (cm), root length (cm), seedling length (cm), root to shoot length ratio, shoot fresh weight (mg), root fresh weight (mg), seedling fresh weight (mg), shoot dry weight (mg), root dry weight (mg), seedling dry weight (mg) and seedling vigour index. The genotypes exhibited significant differences in all the salinity concentrations for all the parameters. High heritability was observed for shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight and seedling fresh weight, while the least value was found for germination percentage. The higher values of genetic advance were obtained for shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight and seedling fresh weight. Selections based on these high heritability estimate coupled with high genetic advance, further can be used in mustard improvement program.