Vol. 12, Issue 8 (2023)

Author(s):
Naveen Kumar Tulluru, K Uma Jyothi, M Ravindra Babu, M Paratpararao, K Usha Kumari and V Sekhar

Abstract:
To achieve desirable improvements in crop plants, it is essential to carefully select appropriate breeding methodologies. This selection process necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the gene activity underlying the inheritance of both quantitative and qualitative traits. In the case of bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.), understanding about the gene action associated with both quantitative and qualitative traits becomes particularly important. This knowledge will serve as a foundation for making informed decisions in crop improvement programmes. Forty-five F₁ hybrids resulted from crossing of 10 parental lines were analysed using half diallel analysis. Based on the GCA to SCA ratio variances, it has been determined that non-additive gene action implies a larger significant role than additive gene action in the inheritance of all the studied characters, except for fruit diameter and vitamin-C. Consequently, for the exploitation of these traits, it is recommended to adopt heterosis breeding. Heterosis breeding involves crossing genetically diverse parents to capitalize on the phenomenon of hybrid vigour, which can lead to superior offspring with enhanced traits.