Studies on variability in reproductive characters of watermelon (Cirtullm lanatus (Thumb) Mastum & Nakai)

摘要

A critical estimate of variability existing in the base population is a prerequisite for successful crop improvement through various plant breeding methods. Watermelon, having a wide range of variability, is an important fruit cum vegetable crop for genetical studies. The progress of the breeding programme depends upon the extent to which the desirable traits are heritable. High heritability estimate in conjunction with high genetic advance was considered more useful than the heritability estimate alone in predicting the resultant effect in the selection programme. Hence, a study to estimate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance was takenup for eight reproductive characters in the Department of Vegetable Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore during 2000-2001.