Genetic Variability, Heritability and Quality Trait Analysis in the F₂ Population of a Yellow × Red-Colored Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Cross

Abstract

Background: Chilli is an economically important spice crop valued for its carotenoid pigments, pungency and nutraceutical properties; however, information on the inheritance of processing-quality traits in segregating populations remains limited. Aims: To assess genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for horticultural, yield and quality traits in an F₂ population of chilli derived from the cross LCA-807 × LCA-657, with emphasis on carotenoid-related processing quality traits. Study Design: Experimental field study using an F₂ segregating population. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted under open-field conditions at the College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh during the Summer, 2024. Methodology: An F₂ population developed from the cross between red and yellow fruited chilli genotypes, LCA-807 and LCA-657, was evaluated for 19 morphological, biochemical and industrial-quality traits. Standard biometrical analyses were performed to estimate phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), broad-sense heritability and genetic advance to determine the extent of variability and nature of inheritance among the studied traits. Results: The F₂ population exhibited wide phenotypic variation for growth, earliness, yield and carotenoid content, indicating extensive recombination among segregants. The highest variability was observed for red carotenoids with PCV and GCV values of 79.02% and 79.01%, respectively, followed by total colour value and dry fruit yield, suggesting strong genetic control with minimal environmental influence. High broad-sense heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for red carotenoids, total colour value, fresh fruit yield, dry fruit yield, oleoresin and ascorbic acid content, indicating the predominance of additive gene action and the effectiveness of direct selection for these traits. Conclusion: The study revealed substantial genetic variability and strong inheritance for important yield and quality traits in the F₂ population of chilli. Traits showing high heritability and genetic advance can be effectively utilized in breeding programmes aimed at developing superior processing-type chilli genotypes with enhanced pigment concentration, yield and nutraceutical quality.