Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
S Kavibalan, S Rohith, RP Gnanamalar, K Venkatesan, M Mohanalakshmi, J Suresh and R Renuka

Abstract:
Coconut is a perennial plantation crop grown extensively throughout the tropics and sub-tropics. Exploitation of available genetic variability forms the primary step in any crop improvement program. Twenty five West Coast Tall (WCT) coconut palms were used to carry out this study. Observations were recorded on three vegetative characters, five floral characters and twelve yield related characters. Analysis of the data revealed a significant degree of variability among the population for most of the studied traits. Moderate degree of Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) and Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) were exhibited by nut water weight, number of female flowers, shell thickness and dehusked nut weight High heritability and genetic advance was recorded for water weight and dehusked nut weight indicating additive genetic control of the trait. Therefore, these specific traits should receive significant attention and emphasis in a coconut breeding program aimed at improving yield.