Variability and association analyses in F₂ populations of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Groundnut is the third-largest oilseed crop produced in the world and second largest in India. The F₂ populations of TMV 7 x Girnar 4 and R2001-2 x Girnar 4 were evaluated to determine the variability and association between yield and its attributing traits. High PCV and GCV along with high heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for the trait viz., primary branches, secondary branches, number of pods, immature pods, mature pods and pod yield . Improvement of these traits would be possible through simple selection program as they are controlled by additive gene action. The traits number of pods, mature pods, 100 kernel weight and shelling percentage showed significant positive correlation with pod yield in both the crosses. The path analysis results revealed that the number of pods per plant had the highest positive direct effect on pod yield per plant and the selection for these traits could positively increase pod yield/ plant.