Abstract

Twelve genotypes of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) were evaluated to determine the genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, and genetic advance as percent of mean for 13 contributing characters. Significant variations were recorded for the various characters studied. Phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were highest for the number of leaves per plant, number of clumps per plant and leaf area index, indicating presence of sufficient genetic variability for selection in these traits. High heritability and high genetic advance for number of leaves per plant, leaf area index and fresh weight indicated the presence of additive gene effects in these traits and their amicability for direct selection. The non additive gene effects were evident in petal thickness, hollowness of the stalk, fresh weight, flower diameter, stalk diameter and neck diameter thus, warranting use of heterosis breeding for these characters. The selection on the basis of number of leaves per plant, number of clumps per plant and leaf area index will be more effective for further breeding programme.

Key words: Gerbera, heritability, variability, genetic advance, phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation.