Genetic variability studies and interrelationships among nutritional quality characters, phytate phosphorus and grain yield in the seeds of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Sr.]

The data on chemical constitution of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] grain and grain yield were recorded for sixty three hybrids and their sixteen parents during post rainy season of 2004. Significant differences were observed for all the characters studied. More or less equal magnitude of both genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for all the characters. Heritability in broad sense and genetic advance were found to be high to moderate for recorded characters. Highly significant negative correlation was observed between grain yield and protein. Phytate phosphorus is positively associated with phosphorus and negatively associated with iron and zinc. This study suggested that simultaneous improvement of both grain quality characters and grain yield is difficult.