Assessment of Genetic Variability for Yield-Related Traits in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) Germplasms

Abstract

Genetic variation is the key element for the success of any crop enhancement initiative, as it offers greater options for selection. The current study was conducted to explore the genetic variation and relationships between morphological characteristics among the 53 diverse germplasm lines collection. The study took place at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Sagar, (M.P.) in the Rabi season of 2015-16. The variance analysis showed that the mean sums of squares related to genotype were significantly notable for all morphological traits, excluding the number of pods per peduncle, indicating that there is considerable variation among genotypes for these traits. High phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) with High genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) estimates were observed for seed yield per plot, seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, 100 seed weight, and height of the lowest pod. High value of heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean observed for seed yield per plot, 100 seed weight and number of pods per plant. This clearly highlighted the significance of additive gene effects with minimal environmental impact in the inheritance of these characteristics, indicating that phenotypic selection may effectively enhance these traits. The results of the correlation showed that genotypic correlation coefficients exceeded phenotypic correlation coefficients for the majority of the traits. Seed yield per plot demonstrated positive genotypic associations with plant height, seed count per pod, pod count per plant, and seed yield per plant. The analysis indicated that genetic factors had a greater impact than environmental ones on yield traits. Taller plants with more seeds per pod and more pods per plant exhibited a higher genetic potential for yield. Notably, earlier blooming and maturation were linked to improved yield. These relationships assist breeders in choosing better lentil varieties.