Genetic Parameters of Variability and Selection Potential for Yield and Quality Traits in Rice under North Western Himalayan Conditions

Abstract

The existence of wide morpho-genetic variability acts as a prerequisite for any crop improvement programme. It provides the basis for effective selection and breeding of superior genotypes for targeted genetic improvement and sustainable crop development. The present study aimed to estimate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for 16 agro-morphological and grain quality traits in 17 rice genotypes. Genotypes were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications during kharif, 2024 at the Rice and Wheat Research Centre, Malan, Himachal Pradesh. The analysis of variance revealed that the mean sum of squares due to genotypes were significant for all the studied traits, thus sufficient genetic variability prevailed. Genetic variability studies revealed that high Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) and high Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) were exhibited by five traits viz., spikelets per panicle, grains per panicle, grain breadth, L:B ratio and gel consistency. These traits also exhibited high heritability coupled with high genetic advance which suggests that there is predominance of additive gene action and selection would be effective. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance provided more realistic results. Therefore, by evaluating genetic parameters viz., PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance, breeders can efficiently determine the extent of variability present in a population, predict the effectiveness of selection and maximize genetic gain for various target traits which ultimately helps in developing stable and superior varieties, suitable for diverse agro-ecological regions. Thus, present study helped to unravel the hidden genetic potential among the genotypes, enabling its strategic exploitation for crop improvement.