Genetic variability, heritability, correlation and path analysis in snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina L.)

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to magnitude the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in snake gourd for identifying desirable parents. Fifty genotypes were evaluated for eleven characters through RBD during the year 2011–12. The phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) was slightly higher than their corresponding genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) for all characters. Highest GCV and PCV values were observed for characters like fruit length, fruit weight and number of fruits per plant. Moderate phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation for yield, fruit girth and number of seeds per fruit indicated the presence of high genetic variability for these traits in the material. High heritability along with high genetic advance observed for fruit length, yield, fruit girth and number of fruits per plant. Fruit yield had significant positive genotypic and phenotypic correlation with number of fruits per plant, fruit girth and vine length. Path coefficient analysis showed that fruit weight had maximum direct effect followed by number of fruits per plant. For selecting high yielding genotypes emphasis should be given on number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit weight, fruit girth and vine length.