Components of genetic variation and response of selection in pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides)

An investigation was conducted in pearl millet composite JOB GT-1 to estimate the components of genetic variance and heritability for yield and related characters using NCO-1. The dominance variation (σ_D²) was very high for number of ears/plot and ear weight/plot, while the same estimate attained a negative value for plant height and ear length, indicating the preponderance of additive gene action in their inheritance. The heritability in narrow sense was high for ear length. Among the various methods of selection for which theoretical responses were calculated, mass selection appeared suitable for all characters.