Estimation of genetic parameters in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) using different diallel methods of Griffing approach

The theory and analysis of diallel crosses have been defined and developed by many scientists. Griffing in 1965 described the diallel analysis in four methods with four models. In this study estimation of genetic parameters through different methods of Griffing approach was compared. Seven lines of Brassica napus L. were crossed in all possible combinations including reciprocal crosses. Forty two F1s together with seven parents were planted using randomized complete block design with 2 replications. Combining ability analysis was carried out for 12 agronomic characters on the basis of four methods of Griffing’s approach. Estimation of additive (σA2) and dominance (σD2) genetic variances and calculation of dominance ratio (σD2/σA2) was carried out for these methods. The estimation of additive and dominance genetic variances in the method 3 were negative for all characters and in method 2 and 4 they were negative only for some characters. However, in method 1 additive genetic variance was positive for all characters. Considering the estimation formula for additive and dominance genetic variances it was concluded that, when mean square specific combining ability (SCA) is greater than mean square of general combining ability (GCA), estimation of additive genetic variance is negative. This situation was observed in methods 2, 3,and 4 but not in method 1. It was indicated that components of genetic variances was better estimated in method 1 than the other methods in this study. Results indicated that the method 1 provided consistent estimation of additive and dominance genetic variance and was superior in comparison with the other Griffing methods.