Studies on variability, heritability and genetic advance in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean were observed for number of primary branches per plant, plant height, total sucrose content, pod yield and kernel yield per plant. It indicates the role of additive gene action and hence, the usefulness of phenotypic selection for bringing improvement. It indicates the presence of considerable amount of genetic variability for these characters. High heritability was observed for all 13 characters. High genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for number of primary branches per plant, plant height, number of filled pods per plant, HI, SP, SMK (%), 100-kernel weight, protein content, total sucrose content, pod yield and kernel yield alongwith high heritability. The characters days to maturity and oil percentage recorded moderate GAM alongwith high heritability.