Genetic Diversity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Germplasm

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to examine the genetic diversity existing among 30 genotypes of wheat. The experimental design used was randomized block design having four replications. The study revealed wide range of variability and high heritability for all the traits. High estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were observed for number of tillers per plant and yield per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for number of tillers per plant and 1000 seed weight. The 30 genotypes of wheat were grouped into six clusters using D² analysis. The cluster III consisted of maximum number of genotypes.  The highest inter cluster distance was observed between cluster III and cluster VI. On the basis of mean performance genotypes IBW-1129, IBW-1036, IBW-1033, IBW-1164 and ESW-15 were found to the best genotype in Allahabad agro-climatic conditions. Contribution (%) towards the total divergence was a maximum through 1000 seed weight followed by biological yield, and days to 50% flowering.

Keywords: Genetic variability, heritability, cluster analysis, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)