Abstract
Exotic quinoa genotypes were evaluated for seedling vigor, viability, heritability, and genotypic and phenotypic variations
under lab. conditions. A total of 25 genotypes of quinoa underwent comparison. Distinct demarcation among these genotypes
was observed for final germination percentage, mean germination time, time to 50% germination, germination index,
root/shoot length and root:shoot ratio. Viable, vigorous genotypes and poorly performing genotypes were identified and
grouped from the available exotic germplasm. This selection was made on the assumption that resistance to climatic
adversities and better sustainability under poor storage conditions are issues of immense importance in postharvest handling
of quinoa seed. For selection of vigorous quinoa genotypes, final germination percentage (more than 90%) and root (more
than 3.5 cm) or shoot lengths (more than 4.0 cm) presented themselves as important associated traits, in addition to
germination index (22 to 33) and seedling survival percentage (between 90-100%). However, final germination percentage
and root length were demonstrated to be reliable and environment-proof traits for the crop.
