Genetic variability studies for yield and its component traits in RIL population of blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)

Abstract

Blackgram or Urdbean, being a fourth important pulse crop in India has low genetic variability, low harvest index and no significant improvement in its productivity till date. An inter sub specific mapping population was developed by crossing VBN(Bg) 5 x Vigna mungo var. silvestris 22/10 by single seed decent method. The genetic variability parameters were studied in a RIL (Recombinant Inbred Line) population consisting of 193 lines and their parents. The higher estimates of PCV were observed for all the traits when compared with GCV. However, GCV was found to be high for the traits single plant yield, number of clusters per plant and number of pods per plant. High heritability per cent was observed for days to maturity, number of seeds per pod and hundred seed weight. High genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for plant height, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, single plant yield and hundred seed weight. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for hundred seed weight. Transgressive segregants were observed for all the traits. These could be used further for yield testing apart from utilizing it as pre breeding material. The mapping population could be used for mapping of genes for important traits.