Genetic Variability and Direct Selection Criterion for Seed Yield in Segregating Generations of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

The aim of this study was to determine nature and extent of variability parameters and their utilization in barley breeding programme. A total of 45 F1s along with their parents and F2 populations were evaluated in a randomized block design with 3 replications during Rabi (winter season) 2014. The various traits measured were days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, flag leaf area, upper leaf area, tillers−plant, spikes−plant, spike length, grains−spike, spike weight, grain weight−spike, spike harvest index, 1000 grain weight, biological yield−plant, grain yield−plant (g), harvest index, grain size, husk content and protein content. Results showed that significant variation was observed for all the traits studied in the entire gene pool. The degree of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was high for tillers−plant, spike−plant, grain yield−plant, flag leaf area, harvest index, 1000 grain weight, grain weight−spike, upper leaf area and husk content. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for tillers−plant, spikes−plant, grain yield−plant, flag leaf area, harvest index, grain weight−spike, upper leaf area, husk content, grain size and plant height suggesting that these traits are highly heritable and governed by additive gene action. Moderate heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for 1000 grain weight, biological yield−plant, spike length, protein content, grains-spike and spike weight; however, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity had moderate heritability coupled with low genetic advance suggesting preponderance on non-additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits. It could be concluded that the traits of tillers−plant, spikes−plant, grain yield−plant, flag leaf area, harvest index, grain weight−spike, upper leaf area, husk content, grain size and plant height were identified as most decisive factor intended towards developing high yielding barley cultivars. Corresponding author.