Genetic variability in pea (Pisum sativum L.) germplasm for utilization

Genetic variability was assessed in 210 accessions of pea germplasm assembled from diverse eco-geographic regions of the world. High germplasm variability was observed for qualitative as well as quantitative traits. Based on agro-morphological traits, 33 diverse germplasm accessions were selected for earliness, dwarf plants, afila type, long pods, high pods/plant, high number of seeds/pod, and high seed yield/plant. Analysis of variance revealed that the differences among 33 accessions were significant for all the characters except seeds/pod. Moderate to high levels of genotypic coefficient of variability, heritability, and genetic advance were observed for plant height, 100-seed weight, pod length, seed yield/plant, and pods/plant which suggested that these traits would respond to selection owing to their high genetic variability and transmissibility. Correlation and path analyses revealed that primary branches and 100-seed weight were the most important yield components that could be used as selection indices for further improvement in pea germplasm. Grouping of germplasm and hybridization among genetically diverse germplasm accessions of clusters IV (IC208375, IC212631), cluster III (EC342007), and cluster I (EC381866) would be helpful in developing new varieties and broadening their genetic base.