Assessment of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Gain in Advanced Mutant Breeding Lines of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

In present investigation, 133genotypes comprised of advanced mutant breeding lines, germplasm lines, genotypes pertaining to Initial Varietal Trial, Advanced varietal Trial and Multi Location Trial, popular varieties national, zonal and local checks were evaluated for assessment of genetic variability at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jagtial with Randomized Block design in 3 replications. Influence on breeding programmes is especially based on the extent to which variability occurs and the relative amount of variation in the different traits. It is measured by determining the genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV). Since heritability may be affected by environmental factors, information of predicted genetic gain will be more helpful in the selection process. Genetic advance (GA) on the other hand refers to the improvement of traits in genotypic value for the new population in comparison with the original population. From the above investigated material, the highest GCV and PCV was observed for traits seed yield per plant followed by number of capsules per plant, number of branches per plant and phyllody (% incidence). The heritability estimates were high for days to maturity followed by days to 50 % flowering, plant height, seed yield per plant, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant and phyllody (% incidence). High heritability coupled with high GAM indicates the presence of additive gene action for the characters and they are inherited through simple selection.