Estimation of Heterosis in Root Length of Wheat under Different Saline Environment

A 6 x 6 diallel cross among three sensitive (18180-II, 18205-I, 18205-I and DN-18) and three tolerant (18194-II, DN-4, and LU-26S) wheat genotypes was analyzed. Thirty-six genotypes were sown in a triplicates completely randomized design in hydroponics culture. Data for root length was recorded in three salinity levels, i.e. control, 10 and 15 dSm(-1). Combining ability effects controller tolerance in the two salinity levels (10 and 15 dSm(-1)). The genotypes 18194-II and LU-26S exhibited highest general combining abilities under10 and 15 dSm(-1). The cross combinations with highest specific combining ability for root length were 18194-II x DN-4, 18180-II x 18205-I and LU26S x DN-18 under salinity levels. In reciprocals the crosses DN-18 x DN-4 and DN-4 x 18205-I appeared to be superior to the others under high salinity levels. DN-4 x LU26S produced significantly longer roots than its better parent and thus showed highest heterobeltiosis in high salinity level.