Characterization of Interspecific F1 Hybrids of Okra Exploiting Abelmoschus caillei (A. Chev) Stevels

Wild okra germplasm offers a rich source for breeding programme focused on enhancing biotic and abiotic stress resistance, yield, and quality. Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (YVMD) which affects quality and yield, is a major constraint in okra cultivation worldwide. Abelmoschus caillei (A. Chev.) Stevels, is a promising source of resistance to YVMD which could be effectively utilized for interogressing resistance to cultivated okra Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench. The present study envisaged to develop and characterize interspecific hybrids in okra by crossing the A. caillei genotype Susthira, directly and reciprocally with three A. esculentus genotypes that are susceptible to YVMD, viz., the green fruited type – NBPGR (National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources) accession no. EC305635, the white fruited type – Anakomban and the red fruited type –Aruna. Agro-morphological characterization of the interspecific hybrids and their parents was carried out. The study revealed that the A. caillei and A. esculentus genotypes were cross compatible as all the crosses produced successful fruit and seed set. The interspecific hybrids showcased normal growth, vigour exceeding that of both parents and a combination of parental traits. Significant variation was observed among hybrids and their parents in terms of the quantitative characteristics studied indicating the potential for genetic improvement. Notably the yield-related traits of the F1 hybrids, T5 (Aruna × Susthira), T4 (Susthira × EC305635), T3 (EC305635 × Susthira) and T6 (Susthira × Aruna) were superior to those of all the other hybrids and parental lines, confirming the hypothesis of luxuriance in these interspecific hybrids. The present study lays the foundation for utilizing A. caillei for YVMD resistance breeding in okra and exploring promising hybrid combinations for future breeding programme.