Genetic variability in quantitative traits of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes

The field pea is very important when it comes to the nutrition of domestic animals, due to a high content of proteins in its grains and aboveground biomass. The aim of this study was to examine genetic variability in quantitative traits of newly created field pea hybrids. The researchers studied two cultivars, one line and their F-3 and F-4 hybrids. The following quantitative traits were analysed: number of pods per plant, number of grains per pod, 1000 seed weight and grain yield. The largest number of pods per plant was recorded for the Baccara x L-CC line hybrid, with a statistically significantly larger (P < 0.01) number of pods per plant than all the other investigated genotypes, lines and hybrids. L-CC line x Baccara, and Sasa x L-CC line had a significantly larger (P < 0.05) number of grains per pod. The smallest number of grains per pod was recorded for the Sasa and Baccara x Sasa hybrid. The genotype vs. year interaction had a significant (P < 0.05) influence on 1000 seed weight. Significantly higher (P < 0.05) 1000 seed weight was recorded for the Baccara genotype, when compared with all other investigated genotypes, lines and hybrids. The lowest 1000 seed weight was recorded for the L-CC line. The genotype x year interaction had a significant influence on the seed yield of field pea. During this research, high seed yields were achieved by the Baccara genotype and Baccara x L-CC line and Baccara x Sasa hybrids.