Browsing by Author "Beena Thomas"

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Combining ability for biological nitrogen fixation traits and yield components in blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 1996) Beena Thomas; Sreekumar, S G
The research programme was carried out at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 1995-96. The objective was to assess the general and specific combining abilities and gene action involved in the inheritance of biological nitrogen fixation traits and yield components in blackgram, as a preliminary step for developing high yielding varieties with good biological nitrogen fixation capacity. The five lines, three testers and their 15 combinations were evaluated in a replicated field experiment and data on twelve characters were collected and subjected to line x tester analysis. The best general combiners for important biological nitrogen fixation traits were COBG305 and Pant U19 among lines and T9 among testers. The hybrid combination Pant U19 x T9 was the best specific combiner for these characters. In the case of number of pods and grain yield per plant, among. lines WBG-13 and among testers T9 were the best general combiners. The hybrids, LBG 17 x VBN 1 and WBG 13 x AKU4 were the best specific combinations for these traits. Considering the mean performance, sea effect and standard heterosis percentage Pant U 19 x T9 was identified as the best hybrid combination for nodule weight and nitrogen content at 50 per cent flowering. Regarding yield, the best hybrid was WBG 13 x AKU4. These superior combinations can be utilized further for developing improved blackgram varieties.
Evaluation of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) genotypes for yield and resistance to pulse beetle (Callosobruchus spp.)
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2017) Thouseem, N; Beena Thomas
Evaluation of genotypes for yield and resistance to leaf curl in bird chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.)
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2015) Bandla Srinivas; Beena Thomas
The project entitled “Evaluation of genotypes for yield and resistance to leaf curl in bird chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.)" was under taken with an objective to identify high yielding genotypes of bird chilli with resistance to leaf curl. The data for the investigation were collected from two field experiments. In experiment I, 78 accessions of bird chilli collected from different parts of Kerala were evaluated in the field for yield and resistance to leaf curl. The accession A4 (Vandithadam-I ) showed highest mean values with respect to number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, fruit length, plant height and lowest number of white flies per plant and categorised as tolerant to leaf curl. The accession A50 (Kumarapuram-I) showed highest mean values for number of fruits per plant, average fruit length, average fruit width and fruit yield per plant and it had zero vulnerability index i.e. resistance to leaf curl. The number of thrips per leaf and number of mites per leaf were lowest for accessions A28 (Kottakkal-IV) and A38 (Palakkad-I) respectively. The genetic divergence among 78 genotypes, in experiment I was studied and the genotypes were grouped into nine clusters. Cluster II accommodated maximum number of genotypes (24) followed by cluster IV with 13 genotypes, cluster I with 11 genotypes, cluster V with 9 genotypes, cluster IX with 8 genotypes, cluster VI with 7 genotypes, cluster VII with 3 genotypes, cluster VIII with 2 genotypes and cluster III with 1 genotype. Cluster VIII and cluster IX were found to be superior to the other clusters with respect to the desirable characters. It was observed that there was no close correspondence between geographical distribution and genetic divergence. In experiment II, 10 accessions of bird chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) selected from experiment I, were studied. These genotypes showed significant difference for all the biometric characters. They all showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance except for number of days to first flowering and average fruit length for which the genetic advance was low and moderate respectively. The maximum values for phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were recorded for incidence of leaf curl disease and fruit yield per plant and the minimum values were for number of days to first flowering. High positive correlation was recorded for fruit yield per plant with individual fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, plant height, number of secondary branches, average fruit width, number of primary branches, average fruit length and number of days to first flowering. Path coefficient analysis revealed that individual fruit weight and number of fruits per plant had high positive direct effect on fruit yield per plant. Hence, through selection for these characters yield can be improved. The genotype T5 (Kumarapuram-I) was ranked first with respect to yield and resistance to leaf curl and this can be developed as a superior bird chilli variety.
Evaluation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes for yield under water stress conditions
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2017) Namitha Elizabeth; Beena Thomas
Gene action and gene expression analysis in tomato (Solanum iycopersicum L.) under moisture stress
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2021) Chippy, A K; Beena Thomas
The present investigation entitled ‘‘Gene action and gene expression analysis in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under moisture stress” was conducted during the period 2017-2021, in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani. Thirty-two genotypes including local genotypes of tomato were collected from different sources and studied under three different experiments. In the first experiment, twenty-one F1 hybrids derived from the line x tester mating and their ten parents were transplanted in the field and the treatment mean sum of square due to genotypes was found to be highly significant for all the characters studied which would ultimately indicate diverse nature of selected genotypes. The mean performance showed wide range of variation for most of the characters studied. Among lines, L7 (Pusa Ruby) showed higher mean performance for all-out of nine characters viz., plant height, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit volume, fruit weight, yield per plant, yield per plot, root length, root volume and relative water content. Among three testers, T2 (Kuttichal Local) showed favourable mean performance for seventeen traits viz., plant height, primary branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, number of flowering clusters per plant, number of fruits per cluster, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit volume, fruit weight, yield per plant, yield per plot, vitamin C, total acidity, stomatal frequency, root length, root volume and proline content. Under moisture stress (Second experiment), among the lines, L7 (Pusa Ruby) showed higher mean performance for eleven characters viz., plant height, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit volume, fruit weight, yield per plant, yield per plot, total soluble solids, root length, root volume and pollen viability. Among three testers, T2 (Kuttichal Local) showed favourable mean performance for sixteen traits viz., plant height, primary branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, number of flowering clusters per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit volume, total soluble solids, total acidity, stomatal frequency, root length, root volume and canopy temperature. Based on general combining ability analysis, the line L6 (Arka Alok) ranked as top by exhibiting significant gca effects for six traits viz., fruit length, fruit girth, fruit volume, fruit weight, specific leaf area and root length. Among the testers, T3 (Kottayam Local) had superior gca effects for Days to 50% flowering, number of flowering clusters per plant, number of fruits per cluster, fruit length, fruit volume, yield per plot, total soluble solids, lycopene, titrable acidity canopy temperature and proline content. Under moisture stress, the line L3 (Akshaya) ranked as top by exhibiting significant gca effects for ten traits viz., primary branches per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, yield per plant, yield per plot, stomatal frequency, specific leaf area, canopy temperature and pollen viability. Among the testers, T1 (Palakkad Local) had superior gca effects for plant height, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit volume, yield per plant, yield per plot, total soluble solids, relative water content, canopy temperature and proline content. In the case of hybrids, Based on mean performance, the crosses L1 x T1 (Vellayani Vijay x Palakkad Local), L2 x T3 (Anagha x Kottayam Local), L3 x T1 (Akshaya x Palakkad Local), L3 x T3 (Akshaya x Kottayam Local), L4 x T1 (PKM 1 x Palakkad Local), L4 x T2 (PKM 1 x Kuttichal Local), L5 x T1 (Arka Meghali x Palakkad Local), L5 x T2 (Arka Meghali x Kuttichal Local), L5 x T3 (Arka Meghali x Kottayam Local), L6 x T2 (Arka Alok x Kuttichal Local) and L6 x T3 (Arka Alok x Kottayam Local) were superior for different yield characters. Under moisture stress, Hybrids L3 x T1 (Akshaya x Palakkad Local), L3 x T3 (Akshaya x Kottayam Local), L4 x T1 (PKM 1 x Palakkad Local), L4 x T2 (PKM 1 x Kuttichal Local), L5 x T2 (Arka Meghali x Kuttichal Local), L7 x T2 (Pusa Ruby x Kuttichal Local) and L7 x T3 (Pusa Ruby x Kottayam Local) were superior for yield based on mean value. Based on combining ability studies under normal field condition, identified superior crosses such as L1 x T1 (Vellayani Vijay x Palakkad Local), L2 x T1 (Anagha x Palakkad Local), L2 x T3 (Anagha x Kottayam Local), L3 x T1 (Akshaya x Palakkad Local), L3 x T3 (Akshaya x Kottayam Local), L4 x T1 (PKM 1 x Palakkad Local), L4 x T2 (PKM 1 x Kuttichal Local), L6 x T2 (Arka Alok x Kuttichal Local), L6 x T3 (Arka Alok x Kottayam Local), L7 x T1 (Pusa Ruby x Palakkad Local) and L7 x T3 (Pusa Ruby x Kottayam Local) exhibited higher sca effects for yield per plant. Under moisture stress, identified superior crosses such as L1 x T2 (Vellayani Vijay x Kuttichal Local), L2 x T3 (Anagha x Kottayam Local), L3 x T1 (Akshaya x Palakkad Local), L4 x T2 (PKM 1 x Kuttichal Local), L5 x T2 (Arka Meghali x Kuttichal Local), L6 x T2 (Arka Alok x Kuttichal Local) and L7 x T3 (Pusa Ruby x Kottayam Local) exhibited higher sca effects for yield per plant. Based on heterosis, Overall, nineteen hybrids (L1 x T1, L1 x T2, L1 x T3, L2 x T1, L2 x T2, L2 x T3, L3 x T1, L3 x T3, L4 x T1, L4 x T2, L4 x T3, L5 x T1, L5 x T2, L5 x T3, L6 x T1, L6 x T2, L6 x T3, L7 x T1 and L7 x T3) from twenty one crosses revealed significant and positive heterobeltiosis for yield per plant under normal field condition. In the case of gene action, dominance genetic variance (σ2D) is higher than additive genetic variance (σ2A) was observed for all the traits under normal field condition and water stress condition, indicating that traits are controlled by non-additive gene action. Correlation study revealed yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with the traits viz., primary branches per plant, number of flowering clusters per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit volume, fruit weight and yield per plot. Based on qRT-PCR, the expression of both genes (moisture stress related genesSlDREB 1 and SlWRKY 4) was upregulated under water stress in all selected genotypes and the expression was more than moisture stress tolerant check variety. The result is in accordance with the analysis of moisture stress related physiological characters in these genotypes in the field under stress. From the study, identified tolerant sources for moisture stress viz., Akshaya, Pusa Ruby and Kuttichal Local, these lines and tester can be used in breeding programmes for moisture stress tolerance. Based on mean performance and gca, the genotypes Vellayani Vijay, Akshaya, Arka Meghali, Arka Alok and Kottayam local which showed superiority in yield and fruit quality traits can be used for breeding for improvement of yield and quality traits. The hybrids L3xT1 (Akshaya x Palakkad Local), L4 x T2 (PKM 1 x Kuttichal Local), L5 x T2 (Arka Meghali x Kuttichal Local) and L7 x T3 (Pusa Ruby x Kottayam Local) which showed superiority for yield and quality characters with tolerance to moisture stress can be recommended for release after yield trials.
Gene action and gene expression analysis in yardlong bean(Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis(L.) Verdcourt) for drought tolerance
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2022) Rahana, S N; Beena Thomas
Yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt) is a highly remunerative legume vegetable of Kerala. Due to climate change and erratic rainfall, in summer season the crop growth and pod production is heavily affected by moisture stress. Development of high yielding varieties of yard long bean with drought tolerance is essential for its sustainable production. In this context, the present study entitled "Gene action and gene expression analysis in yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt) for drought tolerance" was carried out in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, with an objective to identify drought tolerant genotype from the available germplasm and to understand the nature and magnitude of gene action and gene expression involved in the inheritance of drought tolerance in yard long bean. The study comprised four experiments. First experiment dealt with the seedling stage evaluation of 100-yard-long bean genotypes for drought tolerance in field. The moisture stress was imposed by withholding irrigation and later irrigation was restored in order to ensure the survival of the tolerant lines. The results of the analysis showed significant variations among genotypes. Out of the 100 genotypes screened, 15 drought tolerant genotypes were identified based on their better performance in terms of high RLW, low PWP, more number of days for reaching critical stress level and high recovery percentage. The genotypes identified were G1 (Acc 5), G5 (Acc 1339), G6 (Adoor local), G14 (Anchal local II) G15 (Aranmula local), G24 (Elamadu local), G36 (Kattampally local), G42 (Kollam local), G45 (Kottarakara local), G46 (Kottayam local), G50 (Kulashegarapuram local), 051 (Kulathupuzha local), G60 (Muttathukonam local), G74 (Nilamcl local) and G89 (Pongamoodu local). The fifteen selected genotypes from the first experiment were evaluated for drought tolerance in the second experiment by imposing moisture stress at the reproductive stage. Based on the biometric and physiological evaluations, the top seven genotypes with high yield and drought tolerance A4 (Anchal local II), A5 (Aranmula local), A7 (Kattampally local). All (Kulashegarapuram local), A13 (Muttathukonam local), A14 (Nilamel local), and A15 (Pongamoodu local) were selected as parents for further hybridization in experiment in. In the third experiment, LxT crosses were performed by using seven selected tolerant genotypes as lines with three popular yard long bean varieties as testers to generate twenty one hybrids. The genetic analysis of hybrids and parents were evaluated based on eight morphological and eight physiological parameters. Mean performance, combming ability, gene action and heterosis were estimated. Based on the mean performance and gca effects, L4 (Kulashegarapuram local) and L3 (Kattampally local) are identified as outstanding general combiners and can be exploited as parents for drought tolerance breeding in yard long bean. Three superior crosses, Kattampally local x Vellayani Jyothika (L3 x T3), Nilamel local X Lola (L6 X T2) and Kulashegarapuram local x Lola (L4 x T2) were identified as promising combinations for drought tolerance and yield xmder water stress. In the final experiment quantitative real time PCR was conducted to analyze the gene expression of drought responsive genes in tolerant hybrids and parents. The elevated expression of DREBs and NCEDl genes in tolerant hybrids and genotypes in gene expression analysis reflects the increased drought tolerance ability of those genotypes. The gene expression analysis was in conformity with the field studies. All the hybrids mamfested significant amount of dominance variance for commercial exploitation. Existence of significant amoimt of dominance variance and non-additive gene action suggests that hybridization as the best strategy for improving the drought tolerance character in yard long bean. The identified genotypes can be used for isolation of purelines with enhanced drought tolerance and the transgressive segregants from the identified crosses can be used for the development of drought tolerant high yielding cultivars in the fixture. The work can be continued with the identified genotypes and crosses for the development of climate smart drought tolerant varieties of yard long bean.
Genetic diversity analysis of gladiolus genotypes (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) using molecular markers
(Department of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2022) Karthika Nair, A S; Beena Thomas
Characterization of plant genotypes based on crop genetic diversity is important for effective usage and conservation. This is generally achieved by either morphological tools or molecular tools or by using both. This study entitled “Genetic diversity analysis of gladiolus genotypes (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) using molecular markers” was carried out in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram during 2020-2021 with an objective to analyse genetic diversity in the gladiolus genotypes using ISSR as well as morphological markers. Gladiolus (Gladiolus sp.) is a genus of perennial herbaceous cormous flowering plants in the family Iridaceae which is of high economic importance. Fifteen varieties of gladiolus including twelve varieties from IIHR, Bangalore and three varieties from NBRI, Lucknow were selected for this study. The study was divided into two parts- morphological characterization and molecular characterization. Morphological characterization was done by analysing both vegetative and floral characters. Different tools such as analysis of variance, co-variance, correlations, PCA and dendrogram were used for statistically analysing the recorded data. The dendrogram divided the genotypes into two principal clusters at a distance of 0.10. The major variables that contributed to the clustering of gladiolus genotypes were plant height, number of leaves per shoot, length of leaf, width of leaf, internode length, number of florets open at one time and number of florets per spike as revealed by PCA analysis. For molecular characterization using ISSR markers the genomic DNA was isolated using CTAB method of DNA isolation with little modifications. Ten ISSR primers were used for screening fifteen gladiolus genotypes. After the final PCR with selected primers, the amplicons were resolved in 2% agarose gel and polymorphic bands were obtained. Primers showed 94.56% polymorphism and the number of bands obtained ranged from 3(UBC 857) to 14 (UBC 890) with a mean value of 8.7 polymorphic bands per primer. A total of 87 polymorphic bands were obtained. The data analysed using NTSYS PC 2.02 program created a dendrogram, which grouped 113 the genotypes based on Jaccard’s similarity coefficient in which the fifteen genotypes were separated into two principal clusters. The first principal cluster consisted of most of the genotypes (12 genotypes). The second principal cluster comprised of ‘Arka Naveen’, ‘Archana’ and ‘Arka Gold’ with ‘Archana’ as an outlier. In molecular characterization, least similarity of 34% was observed between G3 (Arka Sapna) and G9 (Archana) whereas, maximum genetic similarity of 82% was observed between G6 (Arka Amar) and G10 (Arka Kumkum). The highest morphological similarity was also observed between G6 (Arka Amar) and G10 (Arka Kumkum) at a distance of 0.83 in UPGMA dendrogram based on Jaccard’s coefficient. Though some similarity in results existed between the morphological and molecular tools used for identifying the genetic relationships among selected gladiolus varieties in this study, it also revealed that the varieties were grouped as separate clusters based on morphological dendrogram. This may be due to the dependence of morphological expression on the physiological state of the individual plant along with environmental influence. Self-incompatibility, along with the outcrossing nature together might have contributed to the high variation observed among the gladiolus genotypes. Being a commercial cut flower crop, based on different floral parameters considered ‘Arka Sapna’, ‘Arka Nazrana’, Arka Darshan’, ‘Arka Amar’ and ‘Arka Poonam’ are recommended as the gladiolus genotypes that showed best performance in Kerala conditions. Tags from this library: No tags from this library for this title.
Genetic improvement in Dendrobium orchids through hybridization and molecular characterization
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2023) Amrutha Unni, M.; Beena Thomas
The present study entitled “Genetic improvement in Dendrobium orchids through hybridization and molecular characterization’ was carried out at Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, during 2018-2022, with an objective to assess the genetic variability in commercially important Dendrobium orchids to develop superior hybrids and confirming hybridity through molecular markers. Twenty Dendrobium orchid genotypes with desirable traits and widespread market acceptance were collected, planted in the greenhouse and assessed for variability, heritability, genetic advance and correlation. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters studied. For the majority of the analysed traits, the mean performance has a broad range of variation among the parents. D. Thong Dang Yellow showed higher mean performance for internode length and plant height. Of the 20 genotypes, 15 flowered, while five genotypes failed to flower due to environmental factors and less adaptations. So the floral characters of 15 genotypes were studied. D. White represented desirable mean values for inflorescence diameter and inflorescence number per plant, D. Rabit Gold showed higher mean performance for pollen fertility and days to first flower opening from inflorescence, D. Gift by God Candy showed higher mean value for flower width in front view and days to last flower opening from first flower and D. Burana Pearl x D. Burana White showed higher peduncle length and vase life. For the vegetative characters, the thickness of leaf exhibited the highest GCV (66.16%) and PCV (69.54 %). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for plant height, number of leaves per shoot, number of aerial roots, length of aerial roots, thickness of the shoot, internodal length, length of the leaf and leaf area which indicated that these traits were controlled by additive gene action. For the floral characters the maximum PCV and GCV were found in flower width in front view. All the floral characters showed high heritability along with high genetic advance, demonstrating that these traits were controlled by additive gene action. Plant height showed the strongest positive correlation with the number of aerial roots among the vegetative characters. Significant highly positive correlation was found between the number of inflorescences per plant and the inflorescence axis diameter. Days to first flower opening from inflorescence emergence recorded significant positive correlation with inflorescence axis diameter. Out of the 15 genotypes studied, three genotypes exhibited seasonal flowering nature and all others were free flowering. Inflorescence axis was found to be pendulous in D. Yaya and the rest of the genotypes produced erect or arching type of inflorescence axis. Flower fragrance were present in D. Red Fairy, D. Thong Dang Yellow, D. Popeyes and D. Gift by God Candy. Shape of flower was found as full and round, flat and surfaced with broad sepals and petals. In the study, thirty ISSR primers were used to examine the genetic diversity of 20 orchid hybrid genotypes used in this study. A total of 102 bands were produced, out of which 57 bands found were polymorphic and 45 bands were monomorphic in nature. Polymorphic information content value of the primer ranged between 0- 0.49. Dendrogram was generated using NTSYS-pc 2.02e software and the twenty genotypes were grouped into five clusters. Divergent lines identified were D. Pink bfc, D. Pearl Red Lip and D. King Dragon. The best ten parental genotypes were crossed based on flower synchronization and availability of pollen. A total of 20 cross combinations were attempted. Incompatibility reactions were noticed at different stages ranging from flower abscission before the onset of any visible post pollination change to instances where seeds germinated but aborted in culture. Mature green capsules were harvested from 12 combinations at 70 to 90 per cent maturity. The 12 combinations were inoculated in vitro, but four of them did not produce any seeds in the capsule and one did not germinate. All seven in vitro cultured combinations were successfully germinated and were sub cultured three to four times. The basal media used for the in vitro propagation was half MS. The in vitro growth of the hybrid Dendrobium was improved by supplementing with BA (1 mg/l), IAA (0.1 mg/1) and charcoal (4g/l) was found to be effective. Deflasked seedlings with three or more leaves and three or more roots were then transferred in half MS media. There was significant variance among the number of days required for germination, protocorm development, emergence of first leaf, the first shoot, the first root primordia and deflasking. At deflasking, there were noticeable variations in seedling morphology among the seven hybrid combinations. The present research work identified 10 commercially popular hybrid genotypes that excelled in floral features and diversity attributes. The hybrid plantlets developed through hybridization are to be hardened and maintained in net house for evaluation of morphological and floral traits. These can be utilized in further crop improvement programmes in Dendrobium.
Genetic improvement through physical mutagenesis in Gladiolus grandiflorus L.
(Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2024-11-28) Aiswarya Raj, P T.; Beena Thomas
The present study entitled “Genetic improvement through physical mutagenesis in Gladiolus grandiflorus L.” was carried out in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2022-24. This study aimed to develop novel ornamental characters in gladiolus through physical mutagenesis. The research programme involved two experiments. The first experiment was the determination of LD50 for gamma rays and the second was the induction of physical mutation through gamma irradiation in gladiolus. Corms of gladiolus varieties, Arka Amar and Arka Thilak were irradiated with gamma ray of doses 25, 40, 55 and 70 Gy using a gamma chamber with 60Co as the radiation source. Each dosage was applied to eight corms of both varieties. The survival rate of the plants decreased significantly with increasing radiation doses. The LD50 values were determined as 58.22 Gy for Arka Amar and 58.31 Gy for Arka Thilak through probit analysis. Based on the LD50 value, effective doses were fixed. Along with control, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65 Gy were decided as treatments for both varieties. Corms of gladiolus varieties were then treated with effective doses of gamma radiation as estimated from the first experiment to induce physical mutagenesis. Six treatments of each varieties were evaluated in FCRD with three replications. The observations on quantitative characters and qualitative characters were recorded. All the characters exhibited significant differences among treatments. Most of the characters showed significant differences among varieties and in their interactions with treatments. The characters like number of leaves per plant, plant height, length and diameter of the floret, and rachis internodal length were the highest in Arka Thilak treated with 45 Gy. In Arka Amar, length of leaf blade and field life were the maximum at 45 Gy, and a greater number of florets per spike was observed at 50 Gy. Among the treatments, lower doses (45- 50 Gy) promoted better growth and development, whereas higher doses (60-65 Gy) had detrimental effects. 99 Among the varieties, Arka Amar exhibited variations in the predominant flower colour, resulting in the production of novel colour mutants at higher doses of gamma radiation. Corms treated with 50 Gy produced a dark pink flower with white colour in the central portion. Also, corms treated with 55 Gy showed a pink colour with light yellow shade in the central portion and a dark pink colour flower with golden yellow shade in central portion was observed in 60 Gy and 65 Gy treatments. High phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were observed for the number of spikes per plant, number of cormels per corm, number of florets per spike, days to sprouting, plant height and number of leaves per plant. Low PCV and GCV were recorded in days to spike initiation and field life. High heritability along with high genetic advance was observed in days to sprouting, number of leaves per plant, length of leaf blade, width of leaf blade, plant height, days to full emergence of spike, spike length, length of the floret, diameter of the floret, number of florets per spike, rachis internodal length, corm weight and number of cormels per corm. This indicates that additive gene action plays a significant role in the expression of these traits. Hence, selection for these traits would be effective. The correlation studies showed a significant positive correlation for spike length with number of florets per spike, length of floret, diameter of floret, plant height, number of leaves per plant, length of leaf blade, corm weight, field life and rachis internodal length. However, days to sprouting and days to spike initiation showed a significant negative correlation with spike length. Path analysis revealed that the length of the floret and number of florets per spike exhibited the highest direct effect on spike length. A high indirect effect on spike length was shown by diameter of the floret through length of the floret. In conclusion, novel colour mutants were obtained in Arka Amar, and also ornamental traits such as length and diameter of the floret, number of spikes per plant, spike length, rachis internodal length, field life, and number of florets per spike were improved with novel variations through gamma irradiation. Lower doses, such as 45 Gy and 50 Gy, were found to be more effective for the development of novel ornamental traits in gladiolus. 100 These treatments can be used in future breeding programmes to improve economically important floral traits. The best treatment combination obtained in this study was Arka Amar with 50 Gy as it produced novel colour mutants along with more number of flowers and more number of spikes per plant. These colour mutants can be multiplied through in vitro techniques.
Genotypic evaluation and in vitro multiplication of anthurium (Anthurium andreanum linden) hybrids
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2019) Anand, S; Beena Thomas
Identification of black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) genotypes with yield and seed quality traits for Kerala
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2023-01-24) Deepika, V.; Beena Thomas
The present study on “Identification of black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) genotypes with yield and seed quality traits for Kerala” was carried out in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during the year 2020-22. The experiment was aimed to identify black gram genotypes with yield and seed quality suitable for Kerala from the collection from different regions. The experimental material comprised of 30 different black gram genotypes collected from National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai and Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar were assessed in a randomized block design, replicated thrice. The seeds were sown in the field at a spacing of 25 cm x 15cm and each genotype was considered as individual treatment. Very few pests and pathogen attack was observed in the field for which control measures were taken up. The thirty genotypes were evaluated for yield and quality characters and their mean values were recorded. Analysis of variance, estimation of genetic parameters such as genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance, correlation analysis and path coefficient analysis were carried out. From variability analysis of 30 black gram genotypes for fifteen yield attributing characters such as emergence percentage, number of primary branches per plant, number of days for blooming, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, number of abnormal/unfilled pods per plant, pod length, seed yield per plant, haulm yield per plant, 100 seed weight, plant height and number of harvest revealed that significant variation existed among all the genotypes for all the characters studied except for number of harvest. The quality traits such as thousand seed weight, seed volume, bulk density, water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity, foaming capacity, protein content, carbohydrate content and also pasting properties such as peak viscosity, breakdown viscosity, setback viscosity, final viscosity and pasting temperature were analysed. All these quality traits showed good amount of variability Estimates of phenotypic variance and phenotype coefficient of variation were higher than their corresponding genotypic variance and genotype coefficient of variation values for all the traits studied indicating variable influence of environment in character expression. High PCV and GCV values were recorded for the characters haulm yield per plant and number of abnormal, unfilled pods per plant. Moderate PCV and GCV values were observed for the traits such as number of primary branches per plant, plant height, number of pods per plant, harvest index and seed yield per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean observed for number of primary branches per plant, plant height, number of pods per plant, haulm yield per plant, number of abnormal/unfilled pods per plant, harvest index and seed yield per plant. The traits emergence percentage, number of days for blooming, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and 100 seed weight showed high heritability with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean. These characters can be subjected to direct selection for further improvement in black gram. Correlation coefficients among the characters were studied to determine the association between yield and yield components. Seed yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with number of seeds per pod, pod length, number of pods per plant, harvest index and haulm yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Path analysis revealed that the harvest index, days to 50% flowering, number of pods per plant, haulm yield per plant, 100 seed weight and number of seeds per pod showed the high positive direct effect on seed yield. Number of days for blooming and pod length exhibited negative direct effect on yield. Therefore, simultaneous selection for harvest index, days to 50% flowering, number of pods per plant, haulm yield per plant, 100 seed weight and number of seeds per pod would be effective for improvement of seed yield in black gram. Among the genotypes studied, VBN 5, ADT 3, AKU 15, MDU 1 and Sumanjana were found to be high yielding varieties. In nutritional aspects, VBN 9 and AKU 15 were found to be high in protein content. In terms of pasting properties, Sumanjana was found to be superior. Therefore, considering both yield and quality aspects, VBN 5, Sumanjana and AKU 15 can be best suited for Kerala conditions. The best performing varieties identified can be used as parent for improving both yield and quality in further black gram breeding program or recommended for general cultivation.
Identification of superior genotypes for yield and quality in red gram[Cajanas cajan (L.)Millsp.] suitable for Kerala
(Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2026-01-05) Shirsat Mahesh Santosh; Beena Thomas
Red gram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.], commonly known as pigeonpea, is an important tropical and subtropical legume valued for its edible seeds. It serves as both a green vegetable and a split pulse (‘dhal’), being a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, and tryptophan. In combination with cereals, pigeonpea provides a nutritionally balanced diet and contributes to food security and sustainable smallholder farming systems. India is the largest producer of pigeonpea. It ranks second among pulses after chickpea, with major cultivation in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. In Kerala, however, despite being an integral part of the diet, commercial cultivation of pigeonpea is meagre. Therefore, the present research entitled “Identification of superior genotypes for yield and quality in red gram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] suitable for Kerala” was undertaken in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, during 2021-2025. In the first experiment, thirty genotypes originating from ICRISAT (Hyderabad), TNAU (Coimbatore), and IARI (New Delhi) were collected and evaluated in the field to study variability parameters and genetic divergence (D2). Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for all 16 traits studied, indicating substantial genetic variability. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) exhibited high values for traits such as the number of primary branches per plant, number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield, and the content of total phenol, tannin, and methionine, indicating a strong potential for improvement through selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was observed for most traits, indicating the predominance of additive gene action, making direct selection effective. Correlation analysis revealed that seed yield per plant was positively and significantly associated with number of pods per plant, biological yield, harvest index, primary branches, and seeds per pod, while phenol content showed a significant negative correlation. Path analysis indicated that biological yield, flowering traits, and harvest index exerted strong positive direct effects on seed yield, whereas days to bud initiation and plant height contributed negatively. All thirty genotypes were assembled into six clusters using D² analysis. Cluster III had the highest number of genotypes (9), followed by cluster IV (5 genotypes), and clusters I, II, V, and VI each had one genotype. The highest intra-cluster distance was recorded in cluster IV and the lowest in cluster II, whereas the highest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters I and VI, followed by clusters IV and V. Molecular diversity analysis among the 30 genotypes was conducted using 30 Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. Of these, 14 were polymorphic, 9 were monomorphic, and 7 markers failed to amplify. The Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) values of polymorphic SSR markers ranged from 0.12 (ASSR 363) to 0.50 (ASSR 281). The lowest Jaccard’s similarity coefficient was observed between genotypes ICPL 300 and ICPL 22081 (0.167). UPGMA cluster analysis grouped all 30 pigeonpea genotypes into six clusters, with Cluster I being the largest (12 genotypes), followed by Cluster III (11 genotypes), Cluster V (3 genotypes), Cluster IV (2 genotypes), and Clusters II and VI with one genotype each. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) confirmed the presence of considerable genetic diversity among the 30 red gram genotypes. Ten superior genotypes, viz., ICPL 11259, ICPL 11300, ICPL 11318, ICPL 11326, ICPL 20327, ICPL 22045, ICPL 22084, ICPL 22081, APK 1, and Pusa Arhar 16, were selected based on seed quality attributes and seed yield per plant. Phenological evaluation of these genotypes was conducted in the field for three seasons (Rabi, Summer, and Kharif). Seasonal evaluation revealed that seed yield per plant was highest during Kharif, though with high variability, whereas Rabi showed relatively stable but lower yields, and Summer provided balanced performance with moderate yield consistency. Among the ten genotypes, APK 1 and Pusa Arhar 16 consistently recorded high seed yield across all three seasons along with good quality traits and are suitable for cultivation in Kerala. Genotypes grouped in different clusters with maximum inter-cluster distances indicate high genetic diversity, which can be exploited in future breeding programmes to manifest heterosis and develop superior hybrids. Genotypes with high molecular diversity can serve as parental lines for making crosses with a broad genetic base, thereby enhancing the scope of genetic improvement.
Identification of superior tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) hybrids with high yield under water stress
(Department of genetics and plant breeding, college of agriculture, Vellayani, 2023-11-14) Harisha, K.; Beena Thomas
The present study, entitled “Identification of superior tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) hybrids with high yield under water stress” was conducted in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2021–2023 with the objective of screening of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) hybrids for high yield under water stress condition. The materials for research were chosen from a previous project in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding. The experimental material included ten F1 hybrids, viz., Vellayani Vijay x Palakkad local, PKM-1 x Kuttichal local, PKM-1 x Palakkad local, PKM-1 x Kottayam local, Akshaya x Kuttichal local, Akshaya x Palakkad local, Akshaya x Kottayam local, Arka Meghali x Kuttichal local, Arka Meghali x Palakkad local and Arka Meghali x Kottayam local. These hybrids were evaluated in both field and pots to identify the F1 hybrid combination with superior performance for yield under water stress condition. The field experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications, and the pot experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with ten treatments and three replications. Water stress was imposed by restricting irrigation once in three days from the flowering stage onwards in both field and pot experiments. The analysis of variance was carried out for the characters under study, viz., plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of days to 50% flowering, number of flower cluster per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight (g), yield per plant (g), relative water content, membrane stability index, total soluble solids (0Brix) and total acidity in both field and pot experiments. A significant difference was noticed for all the characters of F1 hybrids in both field and pot experiments. The mean performance of the F1 hybrids for the characters under study was recorded. The highest yield per plant was shown by Akshaya x Palakkad local, which also showed the maximum value for other characters like flower cluster per plant, fruits per cluster and fruits per plant in both field and pot experiments under water stress condition. The F1 hybrid Arka Meghali x Kottayam local showed the minimum value for most of the characters in both field and pot experiments under water stress condition, hence it is noted as drought susceptible. Qualitative analysis was carried out for F1 hybrids. The Maximum total soluble solids was observed for PKM-1 x Palakkad local, and the maximum total acidity was shown by Arka Meghali x Kottayam local in the field under water stress condition. In the pot experiment, the maximum total soluble solids was recorded by Akshaya x Palakkad local, and the highest total acidity was recorded by PKM-1 x Kottayam local. Analysis of physiological traits showed that the F1 hybrid, Akshaya x Palakkad local recorded the highest relative water content and membrane stability index in both field and pot experiments under water stress condition, indicating that this F1 hybrid is tolerant to electrolyte loss under water stress condition. Genetic parameters were also estimated for all the characters under study. The highest PCV and GCV were shown by yield per plant, primary branches per plant, total acidity, and flower cluster per plant in the field experiment. The characters fruits per cluster and total acidity showed the maximum PCV and GCV in the pot experiment. Under both field and pot conditions, high heritability with high genetic advance was observed for yield per plant, flower cluster per plant, fruits per plant, fruits per cluster and fruit weight. Correlation and path analysis were also performed for the selected traits. All characters showed a significant positive correlation with yield per plant, except days to 50% flowering and membrane stability index, which showed a negative association with the yield per plant in the field experiment. In pot studies, all characters showed a positive association with yield per plant except membrane stability index, which showed a negative association with the yield per plant. The characters plant height, flower cluster per plant and fruits per plant showed a significant positive direct effects on yield per plant in both field and pot experiments. The present study revealed that the F1 hybrid Akshaya x Palakkad local showed superior performance for most of the characters in both field and pot experiments under water stress condition. Hence, this F1 hybrid is considered as water stress tolerant and can be utilized in further crop improvement programs.
Identification of water stress tolerant amaranthus genotypes (Amaranthus tricolor L.) with high yield and quality
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2018) Shahiba, A M; Beena Thomas
Induction of heteroploidy in Dendrobium sp
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2021-12-20) Revathi, B S.; Beena Thomas
The present study entitled “Induction of heteroploidy in Dendrobium sp.” was carried out at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2019-21. The study was undertaken to induce heteroploidy in Dendrobium crumenatum using antimitotic agent colchicine via in vitro and in vivo technique. In in vitro induction of heteroploidy in Dendrobium crumenatum, the explant used in the micropropagation was stem nodal segments containing one axillary bud and the basal medium chosen was VW medium. The best combination of surface sterilization agents identified were, 20 per cent sodium hypochlorite for 20 minutes followed by 0.1 per cent mercuric chloride for 5 minutes and 70 % alcohol for 2 minutes. The medium VW+1 mgL-1 BA + 0.5 mgL-1 2,4-D was chosen for callus induction, callus proliferation and PLB formation. The explants were maintained in dark for callus induction and proliferation and for subsequent stages a photoperiod of 16 hours light and eight hours dark was provided. For the induction of heteroploidy, PLBs were subjected to eight different colchicine treatments in basal VW suspension medium. Colchicine treatments were based on the concentration of colchicine (0.05%, 0.10%, 0.15%, 0.20%) and duration of exposure of PLBs to colchicine (24 and 48 hrs). For shoot induction, VW basal medium supplemented with the hormones BA (1mgL-1) and NAA (0.1 mgL-1) was used. The maximum survival percentage of cultures at shoot multiplication stage after different colchicine treatments was observed to be 83.33 per cent, and the minimum survival percentage noted was 25 per cent. In in vivo induction of heteroploidy in Dendrobium crumenatum, D. crumenatum plantlets were subjected to eight different colchicine treatments, based on colchicine concentration (0.05%, 0.1%) and the duration of exposure of plantlets to these doses of colchicine (24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs, 96 hrs). The highest percentage of plants showing response after colchicine treatment was found to be 83.33 per cent (observation recorded after 2 weeks of colchicine treatment) and the lowest percentage recorded was 16.67 per cent. The observations shoot length, diameter of pseudobulb, number of leaves and width of leaves showed mean values greater than their corresponding control means, whereas the observations, diameter of shoot and length of leaf noted lower mean values than corresponding control. The mean value for the character height of pseudobulb were found to be same for treated and control plantlets. The character, number of leaves recorded high PCV and GCV. Moderate PCV and GCV were recorded for the characters viz., diameter of pseudobulb, length of shoot, length of leaf and width of leaf. The characters, diameter of shoot and length of pseudobulb obtained low PCV and GCV. Significant positive genotypic correlation was observed between length of shoot and height of pseudobulb, diameter of shoot and width of leaf, length of pseudobulb and number of leaves, number of leaves and length of leaf and width of leaf and number of leaves. Flow cytometry analysis of the colchicine treated in vivo and in vitro D. crumenatum samples were performed at Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Biotechnology, Poojapura. The histogram peaks obtained after the analysis of control (diploid) and treated samples were compared for interpretation of the results. In the in vitro treated samples, the maximum tetraploids (66.67 %) were obtained from treatments 0.15% colchicine, 24 hrs and 0.10 % colchicine, 48 hrs. On analyzing the histogram peaks of in vivo treated samples, the highest tetraploid induction (50%) was noticed in treatment 0.05% colchicine, 96 hrs. It was concluded from the present investigation that, for Dendrobium crumenatum which was subjected to both in vitro and in vivo colchicine treatments, in vitro colchicine treatment was found effective than in vivo colchicine treatment, when the concentration and duration of exposure to colchicine used for the study were same
Intra and inter generic hybridization and molecular charatrization in monopodial orchids
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2008) Beena Thomas; Lekha Rani, C
Intra-varietal variability in komadan coconut(Cocos nucifera L.) palms
(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2016) Sathishkumar, S; Beena Thomas
Introgression of TY-2 gene for resistance to tomato leaf curl virus(ToLCV) into tomato variety anagha through marker assisted backcross
(Department of plant breeding and genetics, college of agriculture, Vellayani, 2023-09-16) Bhaskar Reddy, S.; Beena Thomas
The present research work entitled ‘Introgression of Ty-2 gene for resistance to Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) into tomato variety Anagha through marker assisted backcross’ was conducted in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during the year 2019-2023, with an objective to develop high yielding and ToLCV resistant backcross progenies by introgression of Ty2 gene into tomato variety Anagha through marker assisted backcross and also to understand the nature and magnitude of gene effects of different yield related characters. The 17 BC2F1 lines containing Ty2 gene developed in the study can be carried forward for the development of a ToLCV resistant essentially derived variety (EDV). Pyramiding of resistance genes Ty-1, Ty-3, Ty-4, ty-5 or Ty-6 along with Ty2 may enhance the spectrum and durability of resistance. In generation mean analysis, additive and additive x additive gene effects are significant for attributes investigated. Non-additive gene effects were observed to be overpower additive gene effects. Hence, breeding procedure which could exploit non-additive gene action would be suitable for improvement. These methods are used for improvement followed by conventional selection.
Introgression of TY-2 gene for resistance to tomato leaf curl virus(ToLCV) into tomato variety anagha through marker assisted backcross
(Department of plant breeding and genetics, college of agriculture, Vellayani, 2023-09-16) Bhaskar Reddy, S; Beena Thomas
The present research work entitled ‘Introgression of Ty-2 gene for resistance to Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) into tomato variety Anagha through marker assisted backcross’ was conducted in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during the year 2019-2023, with an objective to develop high yielding and ToLCV resistant backcross progenies by introgression of Ty2 gene into tomato variety Anagha through marker assisted backcross and also to understand the nature and magnitude of gene effects of different yield related characters. The 17 BC2F1 lines containing Ty2 gene developed in the study can be carried forward for the development of a ToLCV resistant essentially derived variety (EDV). Pyramiding of resistance genes Ty-1, Ty-3, Ty-4, ty-5 or Ty-6 along with Ty2 may enhance the spectrum and durability of resistance. In generation mean analysis, additive and additive x additive gene effects are significant for attributes investigated. Non-additive gene effects were observed to be overpower additive gene effects. Hence, breeding procedure which could exploit non-additive gene action would be suitable for improvement. These methods are used for improvement followed by conventional selection.
Locating superior segregants with high yield and drought tolerance in yard long bean [Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt]
(Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2024-10-22) Noru Raja Sekhar Reddy; Beena Thomas
Yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt), a member of Fabaceae, holds a significant position among legume vegetable crops. Climate change induced drought can significantly impact its cultivation, yield, and production. Among abiotic stresses, drought is severe and affects the quality of the pods, reducing their size and nutritional content, ultimately leading to decreased growth and yield. This study was entitled “Locating superior segregants with high yield and drought tolerance in yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt)”. The study was conducted in Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, from 2022 to 2024. The research comprised of three main experiments: evaluation of F2 segregants in the field, a laboratory analysis of screening of F3 seeds for drought stress tolerance using PEG, and evaluation of F3 segregants in the field. The previous Ph.D. research work entitled “Gene action and gene expression analysis in yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L). Verdcourt) for drought tolerance” done in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani formed the materials of research work. The materials consisting of 200 seeds of yard long bean collected from F1 segregants from the cross of Katampally Local (Drought tolerant) ×Vellayani Jyothika (High yielding) were used for the present study. The collected 200 F2 segregants were evaluated for yield and various yield-related traits from September to December 2023. The seeds were sown at a spacing of 1.5 m х 0.45 m, and cultural operations were adopted as per the “Package of Practices Recommendations Crops 2016” of Kerala Agricultural University. From five superior segregants (F2-3, F2-79, F2-106, F2-130, and F2-184) the seeds were collected named as F3-1, F3-2, F3-3, F3-4, and F3-5. The collected seeds were used for laboratory experiment to assess drought tolerance by inducing osmotic stress in the laboratory. In the laboratory experiment, these five segregants were further assessed under drought stress conditions using two concentrations of PEG 6000 (-0.75 bar and -1 bar). Based 88 on germination percentage, root length, and seedling vigour index-I, F3-1 and F3-3 were identified as drought tolerant genotypes. The second field experiment (season - 2) involved the evaluation of the F3 segregants in a compact family block design with five progenies and five replications from February to May 2024. The seeds were sown at a spacing of 1.5 m х 0.45 m. The analysis of variance between families revealed that the mean sum of squares due to families was significantly different for all traits except pod width among all five families. The Bartlett’s test for homogeneity of error variances of five families indicated that error variances were homogenous for all characters except pod length, pods per plant, yield per plant, and crop duration. Genetic parameter analysis performed for five F3 families in traits like pod length, pod weight, pods per plant, yield per plant, and crop duration showed high phenotypic and genotypic variation, along with high heritability and genetic advance, indicating their suitability for selection. In the present investigation, the correlation studies indicated a significant positive correlation was shown by the characters like, pod weight, pods per plant, pod length, pod width, and harvest index with yield per plant. However, days to 50% flowering, crop duration, and vine length showed a significant negative correlation with yield per plant. Path analysis of the eight characters showing significant correlation with yield per plant revealed that the pod weight (1.09) and harvest index (1.03) exhibited a very high direct effect on yield per plant. The highest direct effect on yield per plant was shown by days to 50 % flowering (0.87) and pod width (0.79). A high indirect effect on yield per plant was shown by pod weight (3.32) through vine length. In conclusion, in field experiment (season-1) of evaluation of F2 segregants for yield and other related traits, genotypes F2-3, F2-79, F2-106, F2-130, and F2-184 were identified as superior for yield and other related traits out of 200 segregants. Genotypes F3-1 and F3-3 were identified as drought tolerant ones based on germination percentage, root length, and seedling vigour index-I in the laboratory experiment. In field experiment (season-2) of evaluation of F3 segregants for yield and other related traits, among five F3 families, F3-1 was identified as superior for yield and other related parameters. Within each family, superior progenies were progeny-1 (F3-1), progeny-1 89 (F3-2), progeny-2 (F3-3), progeny-3 (F3-4), and progeny-4 (F3-5). Based on the laboratory study, F3-1 was recognized as a superior segregant with drought tolerance. In field experiment, progenies from the F3-1 family showed high yield. These F3-1 segregants can be used in future breeding programmes for varietal development of yard long bean with high yield and drought tolerance.