Genetic variability studies in amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.)

An investigation was carried out to estimate the nature and extent of genetic variability among twenty Amaranthus genotypes (Amaranthus spp.) under randomized block design during the year 2019-20. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits. High genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient variation (PCV) were observed for leaf area, leaf area index, leaf area duration, AGR, dry weight of leaf per plant, specific leaf weight, speed of germination, chlorophyll content and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Moderate GCV and PCV were observed for leaf length, leaf width, petiole length, dry weight of stem per plant, leaf: stem ratio and foliage yield per plant. The high estimates of heritability coupled with higher values of genetic advance as per cent mean (GAM) were observed for the parameters like test weight, speed of germination, germination percentage, seedling dry matter, seedling vigour index-1, seedling vigour index-2, plant height, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, leaf area index, leaf area duration, AGR, specific leaf weight, stem weight per plot, dry weight of leaf, dry weight of stem, leaf: stem ratio, foliage yield per plant, chlorophyll, ascorbic acid and beta- carotene content which indicates the predominance of additive gene action. Arka Arunima, Chikmagalur local, IC-551486, IC-551494 and IC-551466 recorded high foliage yield per plot and these can be utilized in further breeding programme.