Studies on Genetic Variability and Selection Parameters in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell)

Abstract

The present study was undertaken at the Student Instructional Farm of C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during the Rabi seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 to assess genetic variability and selection-related traits in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experimental material consisted of 22 genotypes—18 lines and 4 testers—used in a Line × Tester design to produce 72 F₁ and 72 F₂ hybrids. A total of 166 entries, including parents and their crosses, were evaluated for 14 agronomic and quality traits. Analysis of variance showed highly significant differences across all characters, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability. Estimates of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, along with heritability and genetic advance, suggested strong potential for improvement, particularly for traits like grain yield per plant, productive tillers, flag leaf area, and protein content. These traits showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance, pointing to the dominance of additive gene action and the effectiveness of direct selection. The F₂ populations retained broad variability and promising heritability values, confirming their usefulness in further breeding. Significant line × tester interactions highlighted the role of both additive and non-additive genetic effects. These findings provide a strong base for identifying promising genotypes and advancing wheat breeding programs aimed at developing high-yielding cultivars.