Evaluation of Combining Ability and Heterosis for Achene Yield and Related Traits in Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus l.) Through Line x Tester Analysis

Four sunflower lines, eight testers, and 32 crosses developed in line × tester fashion were evaluated for Specific Combining Ability (SCA) effects in two replications randomized complete block design, in Nimpith, during 2015-2016. Genetic variability among genotypes was assessed for days to flowering, plant height, head diameter, percentage of filled achenes, 100 achene weight, hull content, volume weight, achene yield kg/hectare, oil content and oil yield kg/hectare. Crosses CMS-302A × EC-623011, CMS-302A × R-12-96, CMS-16A × EC-602060, P-2-7-1A × EC-601958, CMS-850A × EC-623029, CMS-850A × EC-512682 and CMS-16A × R-341 had significant and positive SCA effects for achene yield kg/hectare. Seven best SCA crosses are recommended to be the best hybrids for cultivation. Non-additive type of gene action was found for all of the plant traits, which is desirable for heterosis breeding and may be exploited in hybrid seed production