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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

Association studies for yield-contributing agronomic traits and identification of lipoxygenase-2 free genotypes for reduced off-flavour in soybean (Glycine max)

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.10003
Submitted
12 June 2025
Published
02-07-2026 — Updated on 09-07-2026
Versions

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max) is a key legume crop that holds a pivotal position in global agriculture, especially in India, where its productivity and cultivation area are relatively low. Improving soybean yield is imperative to meet increasing demand, yet seed yield is a complex trait influenced by various environmental factors. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and interrelationships among yield-contributing traits in 135 genotypes. Significant differences were observed in all traits, except for the number of branches per plant (NBP) and number of seeds per pod (NSP). High heritability and genetic advance were recorded for traits such as plant height, NBP and number of pods per plant (NPP), indicating the predominance of additive gene action for these traits. Correlation and path analysis revealed that the NPP had the most significant direct effect on single plant yield, followed by the number of clusters per plant (NCP) and the NSP. Furthermore, the study identified soybean genotypes free from lipoxygenase-2, an enzyme responsible for undesirable off-flavours, using SSR markers. The genotype MACS 1281 was found to be free from lipoxygenase-2, making it an ideal candidate for human consumption and for incorporation into breeding programs focused on developing new soybean varieties with reduced off-flavours. These findings provide valuable insights into soybean breeding strategies aimed at both yield enhancement and quality improvement.

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