Characterisation of castor (Ricinus communis L.) hybrids and inbreds by seed morphology and electrophoresis of seed proteins and isoenzymes

Four hybrids of castor and their parents were characterised on the basis of seed shape, mottlings on the seed coat, shape and size of micropyle (by scanning electron microscopy) and electrophoresis of seed total soluble proteins and seedling isoenzymes. The hybrids were more similar to their female parents with respect to seed morphology parameters. SDS-PAGE of the tris-soluble proteins from seeds and esterase and GOT isozyme profiles from 5 day old seedlings could distinguish the hybrids from their female parents. A key was prepared using the above parameters to identify the castor hybrids and inbreds.