Some Physiological Aspects and Production Trends of Certain Coconut Hybrids and Their Parents

Attempts were made to study the physiological basis for the variation in production trends of certain coconut hybrids and their parents. The hybrids in general recorded more chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, soluble protein and nitrate reductase activity and low respiratory rates. East Coast Tall amongst the parents and Malaysian Dwarf Yellow (MDY) X East Coast Tall (ECT) and its reciprocal amongst the hybrids were identified as better material for the production potential in terms of high photosynthetic rates coupled with low respiratory rates. The studies indicate the possibility of using these physiological parameters in selecting vigorous seedlings in the nursery stage itself.