Seed and oil quality characteristics in castor (Ricinus communis L.)

Abstract

Eighteen castor (Ricinus communis L.) genotypes (hybrids/varieties/parental lines) were studied for seed, oil quality as well as fatty acid profile. The maximum 100 seed wt (37.7 g) was observed in 48-1 genotype and the oil content (50.7%) was recorded in SKP-84 pistillate line. Hundred seed weight showed a positive correlation with kernel % (r=0.472*) and seed oil content has positive correlation with kernel oil content (r=0.664**). Industrially important oil qualities like specific gravity, colour, viscosity were also measured. The free fatty acid as oleic acid varied between 1.93 to 7.03%. Among the fatty acids, the ricinoleic acid content was ranging from 84.3 to 87.8% and the maximum was recorded in GCH-4 hybrid.