Assessment of induced genetic variability in blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]

Abstract

The present study was carried out to analyse induced genetic variability in forty five advanced mutant lines of black gram (vigna mungo L. Hepper). These lines were developed through irradiation of seeds of urdbean Mash 1008’ with three doses of gamma rays (45 KR, 55KR & 65 KR) followed by selection from M2 to M5 generation. These advanced mutant lines (M6 ) were evaluated for nine quantitative traits at two locations viz., Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana and Regional Research Station (RRS), Gurdaspur. Pooled analysis of variance showed significant differences among the lines for all the traits under study with the exception of plant height. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was highest for grain yield per plot followed by number of pods per plant and branches per plant. Heritability estimates with high genetic advance were observed for number of branches per plant and pod length. Phenotypic correlation coefficients over the two environments showed that grain yield per plot exhibited significant positive correlation with pods per plant, 100-seed weight, branches per plant and days to maturity. Path analysis revealed maximum direct effect of pods per plant (followed by 100-seed weight and branches per plant) on grain yield per plot.