HETEROSIS AND COMBINING ABILITY FOR STRAW AND SEED YIELD IN OPIUM POPPY

Abstract

The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum 1.) is a largely self- pollinated crop. However, out-crossing from 9-30% has been reported [1]. In addition to opium yield, straw and seed yield are also important traits since these add to the major source of income to the grower [2]. Poppy straw contains about 1.0% morphine (without lanced) and can be used directly in pharmaceuticals. The poppy seed oil contains largely unsaturated fatty acid and there is an apparent demand for this oil. It is imperative to improve seed yield [3] and also oil content in seeds.