Variation in Seed Morphology of Quercus robur L. among Different Genotypes in Kashmir Valley

A study conducted at the Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement laboratory, SKUAST-K, assessed seed morphology variation in Quercus robur L. across different genotypes in Kashmir Valley. The analysis included eighteen phenotypically superior trees from the Srinagar district, focusing on seed length, seed diameter, 100-seed weight, and kernel percent. Significant variability was observed, with genotype T6 from Rajbagh consistently exhibiting the highest values across all traits. Seed length ranged from 2.57 cm to 3.81 cm, with T6 showing the maximum length (3.81 cm). Seed diameter varied between 1.14 cm and 1.88 cm, with T6 again showing the maximum diameter (1.88 cm). The 100-seed weight ranged from 787.96 g to 902.36 g, with T6 having the highest weight (902.36 g). Kernel percent ranged from 71.48% to 88.12%, with T6 recording the highest percentage (88.12%). The study found genotype T6 to consistently demonstrate superior seed traits, indicating its potential for tree improvement programs. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for seed length, diameter, 100-seed weight, and kernel percent were approximately 8.94, 15.01, 10.32, and 26.56, respectively. The highest heritability (h²) was observed in 100-seed weight and kernel percent (71.61%), indicating strong genetic control over these traits. This research highlights the importance of understanding seed morphology in relation to genotype variability, providing insights for improving Quercus robur L. under diverse environmental conditions in the Kashmir Valley.