Ninety-one bottle gourd genotypes were characterized for 13 different qualitative traits and 4 quantitative traits as per the DUS (Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability) guidelines of PPV and FRA. The observations pertaining to the morphological descriptor and quantitative traits grouped the genotypes into different categories. All the genotypes were monoecious with tri-lobed leaves except JBG-51 which was penta-lobed. Ovary length (on the day of anthesis) and peduncle length were maximum in IC-0146365 and Pusa Santusthi, respectively. Fruit shape at marketable maturity was elongated curved in maximum number of genotypes and the check Arka Bahar. Most (79.1) of the genotypes were with straight neck, few (2.2) had crooked neck and 18.7 had no neck at marketable maturity stage. Variability was also observed for fruit skin colour at marketable maturity stage. Seventy-one (78), 13 (14.28) and 4 (4.39) genotypes had light green, mottled and green skin colour, respectively. On the basis of shape of apex at peduncle end of fruit, the genotypes were grouped as raised, flat and depressed. There was variation in intensity of pubescence on the fruit surface of different genotypes. Seed texture at marketable maturity stage, seed shape, and intensity of brown colour of seed testa were also recorded to morphologically differentiate the genotypes. The expression of characters remained consistent over two consecutive seasons indicating their uniformity. These genotypes can be successfully utilized as reference for protection of other varieties under PPVandFR Act, identification and grouping of bottle gourd varieties and for development of elite varieties/hybrids.
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