Genetic variability in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) assessed in South Eastern Rajasthan

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out using twenty fenugreek genotypes (Trigonella foenum
graecum L.) to evaluate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in the population. Significant
genetic variations were observed in the genotypes for all the characters except days to maturity. High phenotypic
and genotypic coefficients of variation were observed for number of pods per plant, harvest index,
number of seeds per pod while low estimates were seen for plant height, days to 50% flowering and pod
length. High heritability estimates were recorded for number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant,
harvest index and test weight. Estimates of heritability were moderate for the traits seed yield and pod length
whereas it was low for days to 50% flowering and plant height. High genetic advance as percent of mean
together with high heritability and high GCV was observed for number of pods per plant, harvest index,
number of seeds per pod, test weight and seed yield indicating additive gene action in the inheritance of
these characters. On the basis of the present study, it can be concluded that simple direct selection can be
exercised for improvement in these major yield contributing characters viz., number of pods per plant, harvest
index, number of seeds per pod and test weight for enhancing fenugreek seed yield ultimately.
Key words: Fenugreek, Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic advance.