Relationship of seed traits on initial progeny growth performance and divergence studies in Madhuca latifolia Macb. for further use in tree improvement

Evaluation of twenty-three genotypes of M. latifolia was carried out based on relationship of seed traits with initial progeny growth performance and divergence studies as a scope for further breeding programme. Variability studies revealed that, more than twelve accessions recorded above average for 100-seed weight (247.5 ± 49.2), oil content (43.8 ± 3.7) and volume index (346.0 ± 97.7). The maximum values observed in studied CPTs were as follows: seed length (39.1 mm) in CPT-15 genotype, seed breadth (19.2 mm) in CPT–8 and CPT–9, aspect ratio (2.2) in CPT-6 and CPT-15, 2D surface area (501.4 and 491.6 mm 2 ) in CPT-9 and CPT-3 respectively. CPT–16 recorded maximum for 100 seed weight (282.4 g) and oil content (51.2%). However, maximum volume index was recorded by CPT–3 (578.3 cm 3 ) followed by CPT–16 (496.0 cm 3 ). The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variations are close to each other for all traits, except volume index that exhibited striking difference between PCV (40.0%) and GCV (19.9%) indicating that for most traits genetic control was quite high. Trait oil content and 100 seed weight expressed high heritability (93.5%, 93.0%) accompanied with moderate genetic advance (17.2%, 15.6%), indicating that, heritability is due to additive gene effects and selection may be effective. At genotypic level 100 seed weight registered positive significant correlation with height (0.73) and seed breadth, oil content with volume index (0.55, 0.71). Hence seeds with large breadth, high seed weight and oil content may be selected for producing better progenies. Since traits viz. 100 seed weight and oil content are under strong genetic control, improvement in these characters can bring improvement in volume index. On the basis of the divergence, the 23 genotypes studied were grouped into 5 clusters, indicating wide diversity. The clustering pattern shows that geographical diversity is not necessarily related to genetic diversity. The genotypes in cluster IV and V were most heterogeneous and can be best used for within group hybridization. Cluster means indicated crosses involving under cluster II and V and cluster II and I may result in substantial segregates and further selection for overall improvement of species.