Genetic variability, association and diversity studies in wheat (Triticum spp. L.)

Abstract

Aim: The present study was aimed to assess the genetic variability and diversity in wheat genotypes and identification of elite lines for future genetic improvement. Methodology: Eighty-four wheat (Triticum spp. L.) genotypes were evaluated in Augmented Block Design with 5 blocks wherein each block contains 20 genotypes including 16 test entries and 4 checks (randomly allocated). Each genotype was sown in double rowed plot of 2.5 m. Results: High GCV and high genetic gain was observed for the traits like tillers/meter row length, grain yield per plot, spike length, grains per spike and 1000-grain weight showing predominance of additive genetic effect for these traits. Grain yield per plot had positive and significant correlation with plant height and tillers number per meter row length. Therefore, these characters should be emphasized more during selection for yield traits and thereby yield improvement in wheat. The cluster analysis identified DBW 107, KRL 283 among bread wheat and HI 8708 and HI 8765 among durum wheat as genetically most diverse genotypes. Interpretation: Greater emphasis should be given on tillers per meter row length and plant height traits while selecting for higher yield. Diverse genotypes identified by multivariate methods can be used in breeding program to generate transgressive segregants in wheat.