Studies on Genetic Variability for Quantitative and Quality Traits in Short Duration Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L. Mill sp.) Genotypes in Kerala, India

Abstract

Red gram (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.), commonly known as pigeon pea, is a widely cultivated legume valued for its nutritional and agronomic importance. This study aimed to assess genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and quality traits in 30 short-duration pigeon pea genotypes grown in Kerala. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for all 16 traits studied, indicating considerable genetic variability. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) exhibited high values for traits like the number of primary branches per plant, number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield, and the content of total phenol, tannin, and methionine, indicating a strong potential for enhancement through selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was observed for most traits, indicating the predominance of additive gene action, making direct selection effective. Traits with moderate and low PCV and GCV, including days to 50% flowering and total protein content, exhibited moderate genetic gain, suggesting limited potential for improvement. The findings provide valuable insights into the selection of promising genotypes for developing high yielding red gram varieties suitable for Kerala’s agro-climatic conditions.