Abstract
Identification of discriminating morphological descriptors for characterization of Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) germplasm in Himachal Pradesh was undertaken in ten different major gene pool areas of Seabuckthorn in Spiti Valley, where 80 per cent population is of Hippophae rhamnoides L. Twenty plants of each gene pool area were selected during the end of growing season. Plant shoot, leaf blade, pubescence and fruit characteristics were recorded. Twenty two morphological traits were recorded for vegetative and reproductive descriptors, which is comprised of Qualitative and Quantitative characteristics. Study concluded with preparation of DUS (Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability) guidelines for developing a new species/sub species or variety or new clone which will help in further breeding and genetic improvement programme. The present study identifies the morphological descriptors that are most relevant for characterization of Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) in cold desert eco-system of Himachal Pradesh.
Keywords
Morphological descriptors, Hippophae rhamnoides, Gene pool areas, Genetic improvement, Ecosystem, Cold desert