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VOL. 10, ISSUE 6 (2025)
Morphological Characterization of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) Accessions Using Qualitative DUS Traits
Authors
Manish V Chavhan1*, R S Wagh2, Y G Ban3, U S Surve4, P K Lokhande5, M R Patil6
Abstract
The study entitled “Morphological Characterization
of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) Accessions Using
Qualitative DUS Traits” was conducted during Kharif 2023 to assess
morphological diversity among twenty genotypes using seven qualitative
descriptors as per PPV&FRA (2007) [6] guidelines. The experiment
was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications and
observations were recorded on plant growth habit, pigmentation at leaf
juncture, glume colour, ear shape, finger branching, leaf sheath pubescence and
seed colour. Results revealed considerable variability across all traits,
indicating the presence of rich genetic diversity within the germplasm. Growth
habit ranged from erect to semi-erect, decumbent and prostrate, with decumbent
types being most frequent. Pigmentation at the leaf juncture was largely
absent, while glume colour varied from light to dark green and purple hues. Ear
shapes displayed clear differentiation among compact, semi-compact, fist and
open forms, and finger branching occurred rarely. Leaf sheath pubescence was
predominantly present, suggesting adaptive importance and seed colour ranged
from copper brown and light brown to dark brown and white. The distinct
expression of these qualitative traits highlights their value as stable
morphological markers for genotype identification, varietal distinctness
testing and seed purity assessment. Overall, the study demonstrates that
qualitative DUS traits serve as a reliable and cost-effective tool for
physiologists and breeders to characterize variability, select desirable lines
and support future finger millet improvement programs through targeted breeding
and conservation of diverse morphotypes.
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Pages:38-41
How to cite this article:
Manish V Chavhan1*, R S Wagh2, Y G Ban3, U S Surve4, P K Lokhande5, M R Patil6 "Morphological Characterization of Finger Millet (<i>Eleusine coracana</i> (L.) Gaertn) Accessions Using Qualitative DUS Traits". International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, Vol 10, Issue 6, 2025, Pages 38-41
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