Genetic Diversity and Morphological Characterization of Three Economically Important Oilseed Species Brassica juncea, Brassica napus, and Eruca sativa

Abstract

Genetic diversity forms the foundation for effective selection and breeding enabling adaptation to changing environments. In this study the genetic and morpho physiological diversity of Brassica juncea, Brassica napus, and Eruca sativa was evaluated under field conditions. Significant variability was observed for key traits plant height, branching, pods per plant seeds per pod and total yield confirming a broad genetic base. Correlation and principal component analyses highlighted pods, seeds per pod, and branching as major yield determining traits and reliable selection criteria. B. juncea showed the greatest heterogeneity, while B. napus and E. sativa displayed stable performance. These findings establish vital reservoirs of genetic resources for developing high yielding, stress tolerant cultivars, supporting future breeding, molecular characterization and sustainable edible oil and biofuel production.