Genetic variability and correlation studies in various genotypes of watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Mansf.]

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine genetic variability and correlation involving 21 watermelon genotypes in a randomized block design with three replications. A considerable amount of variability was observed for qualitative and quantitative traits. Maximum phenotypic and genotypic variability was recorded for the seediness, followed by pericarp thickness and fruit weight. Most of the characters except cotyledon size, leaf blade ratio, emergence of first male flower, emergence of first female flower, days taken to fruit maturity, blooming period and seed length exhibited high estimates of heritability coupled with the high estimates of genetic advance. Number of fruits per vine had significant genotypic and phenotypic positive correlation with the traits leaf blade length, internodal length, number of primary branches and number of secondary branches. Based on yield and yield contributing characters, the genotypes viz., VRW-14, VRW-12, VRW- 20 and VRW-17 were found promising for future improvement programme.