Genetic variation and association studies for yield and component traits in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus [(Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai])

Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path coefficient of yield and yield attributing traits were studied in twelve watermelon genotypes. Analysis of variances revealed significant variability among the genotypes for all the characters. Phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variations were found high for number of fruits per plant and fruit yield*. High heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for fruit diameter. Correlation studies indicated that fruit yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with vine length, number of fruits per plant and total soluble solids. Significant negative correlation was observed between fruit yield per plant and fruit length. Positive direct effect on fruit yield per plant was imposed by vine length, fruit weight, fruit diameter, rind thickness and total soluble solids and negative direct effects were exerted by number of fruits per plant and fruit length. Positive correlation between number of fruits per plant and fruit yield per plant was due to positive indirect effects of number of fruits per plant through fruit length and total soluble solids. Fruit yield could be increased through longer vines and more number of fruits per plant with smaller size.