Vol. 12, Issue 10 (2023)

Author(s):
Ananna Patra, Dr. Mohammad Amir and Chirag

Abstract:
In a comprehensive study conducted at Lovely Professional University, Punjab, India, thirteen diverse traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were investigated using the Line× Tester mating approach, analyzing 27 F₁ hybrids derived from crossing 9 lines and 3 testers. The main goal was to understand the gene action governing agronomic and yield-contributing characteristics. The findings showed that all thirteen traits exhibited non-additive gene action, indicating the significant influence of complex gene interactions on their expression in hybrids. Moreover, the predictability ratios for all traits were below 1, providing further evidence of non-additive gene action and highlighting the limitations of relying solely on parental information to predict trait outcomes accurately. The study highlights the importance of considering gene interactions in wheat breeding programs, offering insights to enhance crop productivity and quality in sustainable agriculture. Moreover, the results advocate the strategic development of hybrids, leveraging non-additive genetic effects, to improve agricultural practices and food security through more effective and targeted wheat breeding efforts.