Genetic Variability in M5 Generation in Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk)

Isabgol belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and genus Plantago with chromosome number 2n=8)). The seed husk of this plant is commonly called Psyllium . The seed husk has the property of absorbing and retaining water which accounts for its utility in checking constipation, diarrhea and intestinal irritation. It is diuretic, alleviates kidney and bladder complaints, gonorrhea, arthritis and hemorrhoids .There is an ample scope to increase the productivity of isabgol through genetic improvement. The genetic improvement is primarily depends upon the nature and magnitude of variability in plant characters, overall genetic diversity among genotypes and association between characters. The limited existing genetic variability is major bottleneck for the improvement of the isabgol .Mutation breeding is ultimate source of variation. It provides raw material upon which other factor of evaluation act and therefore all the new species ultimately arises from the mutation.