Characterization of Okra Species, Their Hybrids and Crossability Relationships among Abelmoschus Species of the Western Ghats Region

Wild relatives of okra represent a good source variation for breeding programs, particularly traits related to biotic and abiotic stresses fruit quality. However, wild species remain largely unexploited breeding. The cultivated accession Abelmoschus esculentus cv. ‘Arka Anamika’ was crossed with three accessions: manihot, ficulens moschatus. crossability estimated based on set, seed set germination rate. results cross compatibility studies revealed that the crosses are compatible only when A. is used as female, reciprocal were not successful in any species. Higher (87.2%) (92%) obtained from × manihot. interspecific F1s exhibited normal growth, flowering formation, but hybrids completely sterile selfing due abnormal meiosis. Characterization parents generally more vigorous than displayed greater alliance towards their parent. further treated 0.1% colchicine restore fertility. showed considerable differences mean performance heterosis over mid parent better ‘A. manihot positive yield traits, viz., per plant, number fruits primary branches plant height. information study relationship, phenotypic characterization will assist breeders development prebreeding material.