Variability and character association analysis in bael germplasm

Genetic variability and correlation coefficient were studied in eighteen Bael genotypes. Data were recorded on 24 morphological and yield contributing traits. Invariably commercially released cultivars viz., Pant Shivani, Pant Urvashi, Pant Aparna, Pant Sujata, NB-1 along with one genotype PB-1 exhibited larger and broader leaflets with large sized flowers and floral organs. Leaf area and leaf fresh weight were also higher in these genotypes. High values of GCV and PCV were observed for the shoot length, leaf area, fruit yield and fruit weight. High heritability (in broad sense) along with high estimates of genetic advance (% of mean) was observed with fruit weight, leaf fresh weight and fruit yield. Keeping in view the estimates of correlation coefficients, selection for improvement in important fruit traits as weight, diameter, and length could be practiced on the basis of leaf length, leaf fresh weight and shoot length during the juvenile phases of plant growth. The present study also revealed the presence of great amount of genetic variability which offers bright prospects for its improvement in near future.