Assessment of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in White Onion (Allium cepa L.) for Growth, Bulb Yield, Quality and its Component Characteristics

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out at Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, during the latekharif season of 2023-2024. The study was undertaken to evaluate the variability present among the latekharif genotypes and predict the results for hybridization programme. Twenty-six genotypes of onion were used for the experiment. Results indicated substantial phenotypic variability across the genotypes, with traits such as marketable yield (t/ha) showing high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation (GCV and PCV). Broad-sense heritability estimates ranged widely, emphasizing genetic control for traits like polar diameter (cm) and marketable yield (t/ha). Genetic advance, as a percentage of mean, highlighted significant annual gains in fresh weight of plant (g) and average weight of bulb (g).The findings underscore the potential for onion improvement through selective breeding strategies targeting traits with high heritability and genetic advance. This research contributes valuable insights into enhancing onion productivity and quality traits crucial for sustainable agricultural practices and global food security.