GENETIC VARIABILITY AND CHARACTER ASSOCIATION IN INTERSPECIFIC HYBRIDS OF SUGARCANE

Abstract

In an interspecific hybrid population of 46 clones derived from crosses of various Saccharum spp., number of millable canes, sugar yield and single cane weight recorded high genotypic coefficient of variation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were recorded for CCS, sucrose content, and number of millable canes. Cane yield recorded low heritability and low genetic advance. Sucrose, brix, CCS and sugar yield were positively interrelated. Cane yield did not have significant positive association with any of the yield attributes except number of millable canes. The hybrids derived from the crosses involving commercial hybrids with S. robustum or S. barber;were superior to other hybrids.