Variability, heritability and genetic advance in chilli (Capsicum spp.)

Genetic variability for various characters was studied in fifty-two chilli (Capsicum spp.) genotype comprising local collections, established varieties and advanced breeding lines. Wide variations were observed for all the characters indicating diverse genetic nature of the base population. The characters fruit drop percentage, fresh fruit yield per plant and dry fruit yield per plant showed high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. Heritability estimates were moderate to high for all the characters, except for number of primary branches. High heritability along with high genetic advance were observed for fruit length, number of fruits per plant, fresh and dry fruit yield per plant. fruit drop percentage and leaf area index, indicating the importance of these traits in yield improvement programme.