Studies on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield and quality traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

The genetic parameters were studied to elucidate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Evaluation of nineteen genotypes of tomato was done in augmented block design due to limited germplasm. The genotypes exhibited a wide range of variability for all the characters studied. Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the characters studied. High heritability combined with high genetic advance was observed for the characters plant height, number of clusters per plant, number of flowers per cluster, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit weight, fruit yield per plant, ascorbic acid, acidity, shelf life and TSS. High heritability combined with high genetic advance indicates that additive gene action plays a major role in governing these traits and these traits can be improved by simple selection.