Assessment of Genetic Variability of \(F_4\) Progenies for Enhanced Pod Yield and Component Traits in Groundnut

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess genetic variability among F4 progenies for pod yield and its components in groundnut. Conducted with 71 F4 progenies from three crosses—TMV-2 × ICGV-91114, TMV-2 × TG-69, and TMV-2 × ICGV-00350—alongside five check  varieties, the investigation was carried out in an augmented design during Kharif 2019. The key objective includes evaluating genetic variability for pod yield and its components. Analysis of variance revealed significant genetic variability among the F4 progenies for all eight traits studied. The range of variability was highest for kernel yield plant-1, followed by pod yield plant-1 and pods plant-1, with minimal variation observed in days to 50 percent flowering. Genetic variability assessments showed high phenotypic and genotypic  coefficients of variation for pods plant-1, pod yield plant-1, and kernel yield plant-1, while traits like days to 50 percent flowering and plant height exhibited lower variability. High heritability estimates, coupled with substantial genetic advances for pods plant-1, pod yield plant-1, and kernel yield plant-1, indicated potential for effective selection. Future work should focus on identifying the superior F4 progenies for selection for potential development of high-yielding groundnut varieties.