Genetic variation, path and correlation analysis in crosses among Indian and Taiwan parents in chilli

Abstract

The most commonly grown spice crop in India is chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), which has culinary and medicinal applications. India is the major producer, consumer, and exporter of chilli, contributing almost one fourth of the world production. Indian chilli export is facing competition in the international market from other chilli-growing countries and high domestic consumption. In India, hot pepper is the most widely used spice and vegetable crop with additional importance of offering outstanding job and income generating opportunities for enormous small farmers in the country. The fruits are consumed fresh, processed or when dried as spice or condiment. Hot pepper is a genetically self-pollinated and chasmogamous crop whose flowers open only after pollination takes place however, 11–64% outcrossing was observed under open pollination.