Genetic variability and heritability studies in advanced breeding lines of bread wheat

Abstract:

While global wheat production has risen steadily, average genetic gain has slowed in recent decades, making it important to identify fresh sources of heritable variation. This research examined 48 advanced breeding lines of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance across 15 quantitative traits at the Central Agricultural University research farm, Imphal, Manipur, during the rabi season of 2022-2023. The trial was laid out in an augmented block design with three checks. High genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV above 20%) was recorded for grain yield per plant, biological mass, and flag leaf area. Broad-sense heritability exceeded 70% for days to heading, days to flowering, grain yield, and thousand-grain weight. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed for grain yield (h2 = 77.6%, GA = 28.4%) and thousand-grain weight (h2 = 72.1%, GA = 24.8%), indicating additive gene action and scope for direct selection. These lines represent promising material for wheat improvement programmes in the north-eastern hill region.