Assessment of Genetic Variability Divergence, Biochemical Influence on Growth and Yield Parameter in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is an important self-pollinated oilseed and fibre crop, valued for its α-linolenic acid, protein, carbohydrates, and antioxidant content. Yield improvement is often constrained by limited exploitation of genetic variability. The study, “Assessment of Genetic Variability Divergence, Biochemical Influence on Growth and Yield Parameter in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)” was conducted during Rabi 2024–25 at Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) University, Prayagraj. Eight genotypes with one check were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications for 18 morphological and biochemical traits. Data were analysed for variance, heritability, genetic advance, and coefficients of variation. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for all traits. Type-397 recorded the highest plant height (65.6 cm at 90 DAS), number of capsules (88.0), seed yield (224.42 kg ha⁻¹), and biological yield (25 g/plant). Jawahar-17 showed maximum protein (18.96 g/100 g) and carbohydrate (29.87 g/100 g), Mukta exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (92%), and Padmini recorded the highest ALA content (58.22%). PCV values exceeded GCV, indicating environmental influence. High heritability coupled with moderate to high genetic advance was observed for seed yield, protein, flavonoids, antioxidants, and ALA. Considerable genetic variability was observed, with yield and quality traits identified as key selection criteria for breeding high-yielding, nutritionally rich linseed cultivars.