Genetic variability and heritability studies in snakegourd (Trichosanthes Anguina L.)

Abstract

Genetic variability and heri lability parameters were studied in48snakegourd accessions. The genotypic coefficient of variation was high for f r u i t i ng nodes on main vine, male flowers/plant, sex ratio, fruits/plant and crude fibre content. The heritabilily was high for total duration of the crop and crude protein content of the f r u i t . Male flowers/plant, sex ratio, fruiting nodes on main vine and fruits/plant exhibited high heritability and high genetic gain indicating additive gene action. Yield/plant, fruit length, total crop duration, days to first harvest and days to first male flower anthesis exhibited high heritability and low genetic gain which indicate nonadditive gene action including epistasis and dominance pointing towards heterosis breeding for high yields and earliness.