Genetic components of variance and predicted response to selection for fodder yield and its components in a pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Sr.) population

Abstract

Genetic components of variance were estimated in a pearl millet population in respect of fodder yield and its components following North Carolina Design II. Additive component was predominant for number of leaves per plant, leaf breadth and stem diameter, whereas dominance genetic variance was significant for plant height and ratio of leaf to stem. However, number of tillers per plant, leaf length, dry fodder yield and green fodder yield per plant showed significance for both additive and dominance components. Highest heritability and highest response to selection were observed in number of leaves per plant, whereas green fodder yield per plant and leaf length exhibited the lowest heritability and response to selection, respectively. Most of the fodder attributes including fodder yield (green as well as dry) per plant showed moderate to high response to selection suggesting the scope of achieving considerable genetic gain through selection in fodder yield. To utilise the dominance component of variance of most of the fodder attributes, development of hybrid has been suggested.