Studies On Genetic Advances And Heritability In Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hooker F.)

Abstract

Twenty genotypes of gerbera were evaluated under naturally-ventilated polyhouse in Completely Randomized Block Design during the year 2014-15 and 2015-16 to determine genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for 18 quantitative traits, based on which selection may be made. Analysis of Variance showed significant differences among genotypes for all the characters studied. Results revealed that magnitude of the Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) was higher than Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) for all the traits, indicating greater genotype and environment interaction. Heritability in the broad sense ranged from 27.54 % (Length of ray florets) to 94.13% (Number of Suckers Per Plant) in 2014-15. Similarly 24.62 % (Stalk length (cm)) to 93.21 % (Flower yield per year (no)) in 2015-16. High heritability (>50%) was observed for all the traits except Plant height (cm), Flower diameter, Stalk length (cm), Length of ray florets, Number of Whorls and B:C ratio during 2014-15 and Plant Spread (cm), Flower diameter, Stalk length (cm) and Flower disc diameter (cm) in 2015-16.. High heritability, coupled with high genetic advance over per cent of mean, was observed for Number of Suckers Per Plant, Days to first flower bud initiation, Vase life in fresh water, Flower yield per year (no), Stalk diameter (cm) showed high heritability with high genetic advance as per cent of mean.