Abstract

The information on the nature and degree of diversity in the genotypes is crucial for efficient utilization of existing genetic resources. Thirteen (13) field pea genotypes along with two standard and one local checks were evaluated in triplicate randomized complete block design for three consecutive years to estimate the genetic variability and identify superior genotypes that generate putative transgressive segregates. Genotypes differed significantly in respect to phonological, yield and some yield related traits, and were highly influenced by the environment. Large magnitude of variability among the genotypes contributed to pod length and reaction to Ascochyta blight. High heritability was observed for days to flower (39.11%) and moderate for seed yield (15.98%). Genetic gains that could be expected from selecting the top 5% of the genotypes was 17.36% for seed yield. Four of the twelve principal components accounted for more than 89% of the total variations. The sixteen (16) genotypes were grouped into five clusters based on D² values for which the maximum distance was found between cluster three and five. Thus, crossing of Tegengech with col 26 and col 23 would result high magnitude of heterosis that would produce superior breeding materials that can be utilized in future breeding program.

Key words: Field pea, genetic variability, multivariate analysis, principal component, cluster.

Abbreviation

ANOVA, Analyses of variance; GA, genetic advance; GAM, genetic advance mean; IBC, Institute of Biodiversity Ethiopia; RCBD, randomized complete block design; m², meter square;  kg, kilograms; kg ha¹, kilograms per hectare; masl, meter above sea level.