Interspecific hybrid progeny evaluation in papaya(Carica papaya L.)

Abstract

Investigation on “Interspecific hybrid progeny evaluation in papaya (Carica papaya L)” was carried out at Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bangalore from June, 2004 to July, 2005. The main objectives of this investigation were to evaluate and establish in vitro culture of selected hybrids and to confirm the hybridity of interspecific hybrids by using ISSR markers. The hybrids that were found to be resistant to PRSV were assorted for in vitro propagation as conventional seed propagation may result in loss of fixed character. An effective establishment of explants was noticed when they were treated with fungicide (Bavistin 0.2%) and bactericide (Streptocyclin 0.1 per cent) along with surface sterlilant mercuric chloride (0.1%) for 3 minutes. Molecular characterization to confirm the hybridity was done with ISSR marker as ISSR marker is known to overcome the disadvantages encountered in using SSR marker. It also known to give clear and reproducible banding pattern which helps in differentiating the parents and to confirm the hybridity and it is known to be a better market then other dominant markers such as RAPD.