Genetic variability and selection strategies for yield improvement in water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) under upland field conditions

Abstract

The present study was conducted during 2023 and 2024 to assess the extent of genetic variation and identify promising genotypes for yield and growth-related traits. Over 25 genotypes, including a variety ‘Kashi Manu’, were evaluated under a randomized block design with three replications. The analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for all the studied traits, indicating substantial genetic variability. Wide ranges were recorded for key parameters such as days to 50% germination (2.39–4.56 days), plant height at 30 DAS (43.50–69.90 cm), stem diameter at 30 DAS (6.54–10.76 mm) and leaf biomass yield per plant per month (0.67–1.68 kg). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for internodal length, stem diameter (30 DAS) and biomass yield traits, suggesting predominance of additive gene action and effectiveness of direct selection. The genotypes VRWS-32, VRWS-28, VRWS-33, VRWS 41-23 and VRWS 42-23 exhibited superior yield performance, comparable to the check variety. These findings indicate ample genetic potential within the evaluated germplasm and emphasize the scope for selection-based improvement to develop high-yielding, upland-adapted water spinach varieties.