Estimates of genetic variability, heritability genetic advance and character association of oat genotypes for green fodder yield

Abstract

Present investigation was carried out at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Rajouri, SKUASTJ,
during Rabi-2011-12 and 2012-13. Heritability estimates varied from 7.73 for number of leaves to
98.82 percent for fodder yield q/ha. Dry matter yield showed highest GCV. High to moderately
high variability for GCV coupled with high estimates of heritability were observed for all the
characters. All the traits except, number of leaves per plant, tillers per plant and days to 5 per cent
maturity exhibited comparatively higher estimates of genotypic coefficient variance, heritability
and genetic advance as percent of mean which is indicative of predominance of additive gene action
in expression of these traits therefore for these characters selection appears to be effective. The
genetic advancement as percent mean was found to be highest for dry matter yield (39.52). Green
fodder yield had significant and positive correlation with all the traits. This study will provide
opportunity to identify best genotypes to be used in breeding. Besides it helps in understanding the
diversity available in the genotypes selected and helps in selection and improvement of desirable
traits to be used or transferred during crossing programme.