Genetics and variability studies in first segregating generation of bell pepper x chilli crosses

Abstract

Five F2 populations of bell pepper x chilli crosses were studied for frequency distribution interrelationship of quantitative characters besides heritability, genetic advance and coheritability for 15 characters. Normal distribution was observed in the F2’s for plant height and fruit length. The distribution for number of primary branches, fruit per plant and average fruit weight were positively skewed. Other characters had varied responses in different populations. Green fruit yield was negatively skewed. Transgressive segregants were observed for all characters except average fruit weight. Plant height, spread primary and secondary branches, fruit length, early yield and fruit number showed positive influence with green fruit yield. Average fruit weight was negatively correlated with green fruit yield. Green fruit yield, average fruit weight and fruit number had high estimates of heritability and genetic advance. Strategies to obtain large fruited high yielding bell pepper types from bell x chilli crosses have been suggested.