Assessment of Genetic Variability, Heritability, and Genetic Advance in Maize (Zea mays L.) Segregating Generations

Abstract

The recent experiment aimed to investigate genetic traits for eleven characteristics, namely, Days to 50% tasselling, Days to 50% silking, Plant height (cm), Tassel length (cm), Ear length (cm), Ear diameter (cm), Ear height (cm), Number of kernel rows per cob, Number of kernels per row, Cob weight (g), and Grain yield (g) during the Kharif and Rabi seasons of 2023-24. The Alpha Lattice Design was employed with two replications. Genotypes were sown in single row, each 2 meters long in each replication. The analysis of variance revealed significant variations among all traits, with phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) generally exceeding genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV). Grain yield (K; 53.45, 51.7: R;101.56, 101.2) and Cob weight (K;38.9, 36.92: R;91.14, 90.81) exhibited the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV) across both seasons, signifying significant genetic variability in the studied material. r Grain yield showed the highest heritability (99.4) with cob weight (99.2) coming in second.  The high heritability indicates a strong likelihood that these traits will be successfully passed on to offspring, making selection more effective. Traits such as Grain yield (g), Cob weight (g), Ear diameter(cm), Ear height(cm), and Tassel length(cm). Demonstrated high heritability and genetic advancement in both seasons, making them promising candidates for enhancement through selection based on additive genetic factors.