Genetic Variability of Growth Parameters among Different Progenies of Santalum album L.

Abstract

Sandal (Santalum album L.), occupies an important place in the ecological, cultural and spiritual heritage of India. Santalum album is an evergreen tree belonging to the family Santalaceae. Among 30 progenies evaluated the progeny FCRISA18 was found to be superior in respect of growth attributes and hence the progeny FCRISA18 could be exploited for further tree improvement programme. The variability study indicated that the volume of the progenies registered highest phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) followed by clear bole height, crown height, diameter at breast height (DBH), basal diameter and tree height. Hence, these parameters could be effectively used as selection criteria to increase tree volume in Santalum album. Maximum heritability was recorded in diameter at breast height (DBH) and low heritability was observed in number of branches however volume showed higher heritability. The trend of genetic advance as per cent of mean was maximum in volume followed by clear bole height, crown height and diameter at breast height (DBH) indicating a wide scope of genetic improvement in the species.