Genetic analysis in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) under Prayagraj agro climatic conditions

Abstract

An experiment was conducted on Genetic variability, heritability, correlation, path coefficient,genetic advance and divergence in the twenty-seven genotypes in Cowpea during 2018-19 at the Research Field of Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The observations were recorded on various yield and yield contributing characters. The results from the present investigation revealed that in Cowpea Genotype Kamini identified as desirable with maximum pod yield. Maximum protein content (25.79%) was recorded in genotype IC - 2022801. Highest GCV and PCV were recorded for Length of Pod (Cm) (50.20, 50.21 respectively), followed by Protein content (46.12, 46.12). Lowest GCV and PCV were recorded for TSS content in pod (%) (0.90, 0.91 respectively) followed by Fibre percentage (3.36, 3.45). Analysis of variance showed significant difference for all the characters under study, indicates that there was ample scope for selection of promising genotypes for yield improvement. At genotypic and phenotypic level No of seeds / plant, Height of plant at flowering (cm), Days to 1st pod emergence (Days),No of Pods / peduncle, Length of Pod (cm),No of Branches, Days to 1st flowering, No of Leaves / plant, had direct positive effect on pod yield per plant. The genotypes included in cluster VII and cluster I are identified as distant genotypes which may serve as potential genotypes for hybridization programme.