Delineating the genetic variability and diversity in green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) wilczek] genotypes

This study evaluated 44 green gram genotypes collected from the AICRP on MULLaRP to investigate genetic variability and divergence. During kharif (July-October, 2020), the genotypes were assessed for various morphological traits. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation, indicating significant variability. Clusters plant⁻¹, pods plant⁻¹, and seed yield plant⁻¹ exhibited the highest genetic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. High heritability was observed for 1000-seed weight, clusters plant⁻¹, pods plant⁻¹, and seeds pod⁻¹, suggesting the influence of additive genetic factors. Genetic advance as a % of the mean was particularly notable for clusters plant⁻¹, pods plant⁻¹, and seed yield plant⁻¹. Further analysis using Mahalanobis D² statistics resulted in the classification of genotypes into seven clusters, with Cluster I being the largest. Cluster IV and VI showed the highest inter-cluster distance, indicating substantial genetic divergence. Notably, Cluster III represented by AKM 1801 displayed superior characteristics such as high mean values for pod length, seeds pod⁻¹, 1000-seed weight, and seed yield per plant, making it a potential candidate for green gram improvement programs. In terms of genetic diversity, 1000-seed weight contributed the most, followed by clusters plant⁻¹ and chlorophyll content. These findings highlight the importance of these traits in shaping the genetic diversity observed among the green gram genotypes.