Heterosis and combining ability studies of newly developed restorers in the pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]

Abstract

The maximum amount of positive heterosis for the traits per plant grains yield and per plant fodder yield over the better parent was found in the hybrid DHLB- 16A × S-21/14 (123.88% and 18.48%), followed by DHLB-23A × S-21/09 (116.69% and 4.17%) and DHLB-23A x S-21/18 (113.78%). These hybrids were evaluated using a 3 × 8 line x tester crossing design. In case of grain yield, the range of heterosis, over better parent found to be -46.51% (DHLB-16A x S-21/15) to 123.88 percent (DHLB-16A x S-21/14). Fodder yield, the range of heterosis over better parent was -44.68 percent (DHLB-16A x S-21/09) to 18.48 percent (DHLB-16A x S-21/14). The good × average combiner had higher frequency among hybrids with favorable and significant SCA impacts for grain yield. Among hybrids viz., DHLB -16A x S-21/14, DHLB -23A x S-21/15, DHLB-14A x S-21/13, DHLB -23A x S-21/18 and DHLB -16A x DHLBI -967 found to be good Specific combiners. Between three females, two lines viz., DHLB -16 A, DHLB -23A and among males viz., S-21/09, S-21/13 and S-21/14 were best general combiners and gave top yielding hybrid combinations.