DUS based agro-morphological characterization and genetic variability in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]

Abstract

Twenty-six okra genotypes were studied for morphological characterization, genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance at the Vegetable Research Farm, JNKVV, Jabalpur, during 2022-23. Significant differences were found among genotypes, indicating substantial morphological variation. The PCV was higher than the GCV for all traits. The highest PCV and GCV were recorded for internodal length (35.86, 33.39), fruit diameter (35.72, 33.59), fruit weight (35.67, 35.19) and number of primary branches per plant (35.61, 32.95), suggesting potential for yield improvement through genetic modification. High heritability and genetic advance for traits like fruit weight (97.31, 71.50), fruit yield per plant (91.97, 58.19), number of primary branches per plant (85.62, 62.81), fruit diameter (88.43, 65.08) and internodal length (86.68, 64.04) indicated that additive genes controlled these traits and might be improved through simple selection.