Genotypic variation and stability analysis for key minerals in diverse germplasm of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck)

This study evaluated the genetic variability, heritability, stability, and inter-relationships of mineral nutrients in 100 broccoli genotypes comprising 21 CMS lines, 39 doubled-haploid lines, 37 inbred lines, and three check cultivars to identify promising germplasm for mineral biofortification. The genotypes were evaluated in an augmented design during two consecutive Rabi seasons (2024–25 and 2025–26). Analysis of variance revealed highly significant (P < 0.01) effects of genotype, season and genotype × season interaction for calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn), indicating substantial genetic variability for mineral accumulation. Mineral concentrations ranged from 2.15–9.92 mg g⁻¹ DW for calcium, 0.03–0.058 mg g⁻¹ DW for iron, 0.01–0.09 mg g⁻¹ DW for manganese, and 0.01–0.10 mg g⁻¹ DW for zinc. Narrow differences between the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, together with high broad-sense heritability (h 2 ) and genetic advance as percentage of mean (GG), indicated strong genetic control of these traits under the present experimental conditions. Stability analysis using Wricke's Ecovalence identified KTB 42 (calcium), KTB 29 (iron), KTB 3 A (manganese) and KTBDH 16 (zinc) as representative stable genotypes across seasons. The composite multi-trait score identified KTB 42, KTB 33, KTBDH 12, KTB 12 and KTB 18 A as superior genotypes with balanced mineral accumulation. These findings provide promising broccoli germplasm for further evaluation in mineral biofortification and genetic improvement programs.