Male sterility in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Coss). IV. Genetics of MS-4

Abstract

Male sterile plants of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Coss.) were observed in the F2 generation of the cross RLM-198 × EJ-33. The genetic analysis revealed that male sterility occurred when the cytoplasm of RLM-198 interacted with recessive nuclear genes of EJ-33. The genetic constitution of RLM-198 was postulated to be (S) RF RF, EJ-33 as (F) rf rf, and the male sterile plants as (S) rf rf. Varieties of Indian mustard from India mostly contained dominant fertility restorer genes, while European varieties had a greater frequency of the recessive maintainer genes. None of these varieties, however, was capable of complete maintenance of male sterility. Heterosis for yield up to 56% over the national check was observed in field trials. The use of this cytoplasmic male sterile plant in hybrid mustard production will not be economical, until a complete maintainer for male sterility is identified.Key words: Brassica juncea, Indian mustard, male sterility, hybrids.