Genetic variability and association studies in guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) for green fodder yield and quality traits

Seventy six clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) genotypes were analysed for genetic variability, correlation and path coefficients. The genotypes were significantly different for all the characters, which indicated scope for further genetic studies. High heritability along with high genetic advance (GA) was recorded number of leaves per plant, number of branches, dry matter yield and green fodder yield indicating that selection would be rewarding for characters. The PCV estimates were invariably higher than their corresponding GCV values thereby suggesting the environmental influence. High estimates of GCV and PCV were observed for leaf weight, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, stem girth, dry matter yield and green fodder yield suggesting that selection based on these characters would facilitate successful isolation of desirable types. Traits like plant height, leaf length, leaf weight, number of leaves per plant and dry matter yield had positive and significant correlation at genotypic as well as phenotypic level with green fodder yield. Hence the selection based on these traits will result in improving the green fodder yield GFY in guar. Most of the yield contributing traits like plant height, leaf length, leaf weight, number of leaves per plant and dry matter yield as well as the quality traits like acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre and in vitro dry matter digestibility showed direct effect on green fodder yield.