Estimates of Genetic Variability for Seed Yield and Its Component Characters in Green Gram (Vigna radiate, Fabaceae)

Abstract

Sixteen green gram (Vigna radiata, Fabaceae) genotypes were evaluated under randomized block design (RBD) with three replications for genetic variability for eight characters. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all the characters. Analysis of variance indicated that experimental material possesses a good amount of variability for all the characters under study. A high magnitude of genotypic coefficient of variance was observed for seed yield per plot, seed yield per hectare, plant height, days to flowering, and test weight while moderate GCV was recorded for the number of seeds per pod, pod length, and days to maturity suggesting the possibility of their improvement by selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain as a percent of mean was observed for test weight, seed yield per hector, seed yield per plot, plant height, and days to flowering while high heritability and moderate genetic gain were recorded for days to maturity, pod length and the number of seeds per pod suggesting that these characters were controlled by additive gene action hence, selection may be effective. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain and high GCV has been exhibited by the characters viz., seed yield per hector, seed yield per plot, plant height, test weight, and days to flowering. There is substantial scope for improvement of these characters. Hence emphasis should be given to improving these characteristics in a future breeding program to enhance the seed yield of green gram.