Combining ability and gene action studies for important horticultural traits in chilli, Capsicum annuum L

Identification of hereditarily superior parents has always been pre-requisite in chilli for the improvement of best strains. The combining ability analysis is the basic, most important and efficient tool in selecting the desirable parents for breeding programme. It is based on first degree statistics which is statistically robust. It helps in estimation of inbreds in terms of their genetic value and in the selection of best parents for hybridization in chilli. Further it also helps in identification of superior cross combinations which may be utilized for exploitation of heterosis commercially. Gene action helps in selection of appropriate breeding procedures for improvement of various characters thereby necessitating breeders to initiate a judicious breeding programme in chilli. Therefore combining ability and gene action analysis have been the most important and efficient tool in selecting the desirable parents for a hybridization, selection of breeding procedure and estimation of genetic parameters. This review will be more helpful in understanding the opportunities offered by combining ability and gene action studies in chilli.