Vol. 11, Issue 12 (2022)

Author(s):
S Vennila, K Kumaran, A Krishnaveni, S Manivasakan, S Kala and S Reeja

Abstract:
The present investigation was carried out at Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu to identify the best CPTs of Pongamia pinnata across its natural distribution areas in Coimbatore and Dharmapuri for further collection of seeds for afforestation or breeding purpose. Seeds were measured for its length, width, 100 seed weight and oil content. Significant was observed among 20 CPTs for seed and oil content. Maximum hundred seed weight (124.36 g) were recorded in PP 17, while PP 7 showed maximum oil content (36.54 %) followed by PP 3 (35.64 %). High heritability (broad sense) and genetic gain were observed for all seed and oil content respectively. Seed length-width ratio and seed length showed significant correlation with oil content. Among twenty CPTs, PP 7, PP 3, PP 4, PP 2 and PP 1 were found superior in terms of oil content. Hence these seed parameters could be considered as selection criteria for early and positive exploitation of high oil yielding genotypes. These CPTs can be further screened for tree improvement traits considering their immense value in yielding bio diesel.