Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in F2andF3 Generation in Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.)
R.M. FahmyM. A. Abd El-Satar and S. F. M. El-Hefnawy
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters, heritability, heterosis and genetic advance from selection of yield and its components, which can provide basis for the exploitation of valuable hybrid combination of sunflower. Half diallel crosses were made among five parental genotypes of sunflower, then F2 and F3 generations of these crosses were grown during 2015 and 2016 seasons respectively, at Bahteem Agricultural, Research Station. Selection was practiced in F2 on the bases of 50% flowering date, seed yield per plant and seed oil content. A total of 153F3 families were evaluated in a replicated trial in 2016season at Bhateem. Genetic variability, heritability, phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, and genetic advance from selection were estimated. Significant difference was observed among parents and F3 families for most studied traits. Broad sense heritability estimates in F3 ranged from 1.00 to 73.00%. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance from selection was recorded for seed yield per fad, seed yield per plant, plant height and physiological maturity. Hence, selection for these traits is expected to be effective. There was a positive and significant genotypic correlation between seed yield per plant and seed oil percentage, indicating the possibility of increasing oil content with high seed yield per plant. Path analysis showed that 50% flowering date and head diameter could be used as a good selection criterion for improving seed yield in sunflower.