Studies on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) genotypes

Abstract

In the present study, an attempt has been made to generate information on genetic variability using twelve custard apple genotypes. The variability, heritability and genetic advance as percent over mean were performed for 20 selected parameters among selected custard apple genotypes at Horticultural Research and Extension station, Tidagundi (Vijayapur). Higher phenotypic coefficient of variation is observed over genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits studied, indicating the performance of environment over genetic parameter. Higher GCV and PCV were observed for fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, yield per plant, total sugar and pulp weight. High heritability for stem girth, number of fruits per plant, pulp weight, fruit length, pulp/peel ratio and fruit width. High GAM was observed for yield per fruit, number of seeds per fruit and peel weight. So, these traits imply the potential for crop improvement through selection and hybridization.