Abstract

                                Studies on variability and association analysis was carried out for RIL F5 generation of a cross TNHSF239-68-1-1-1 x 17B in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) for oil yield and component traits. The highest GCV and PCV were observed for oil yield, seed yield, stripes between margins, stripes on margin and seed colour. High heritability accompanied with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for pollen colour, stripes on margin, stripes between margin, seed colour, hull weight, kernel weight and 100-seeds weight. Association studies revealed that, oil yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with volume weight, 100-seeds weight, hull weig ht, kernel weight and oil content. Seed yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with volume weight, 100-seeds weight, hull weight, kernel weight and oil content. The stripes (on margin and between margins) had significant negative association with seed color, 100-seeds weight and kernel weight.

Key words : Sunflower, Genetic variability, Heritability, Correlation, Seed morphological traits, Oil yield.