Combining ability studies on Gossypium hirsutum X G. barbadense hybrids

Abstract

Eight yield-related traits were assessed in 70 F1 hybrids obtained by crossing 14 G. hirsutum lines with 5 G. barbadense testers. Both GCA and SCA variances were significant for all the characters. GCA : SCA ratios suggested that additive genetic variance was important for yield, boll number, seeds per boll, halo length and ginning percentage. ROIL12, Acala Glandless (both G. hirsutum) and Suvin had high GCAs for yield. The best cross combination, K3400 X Suvin, had high SCA estimates for yield, boll number and halo length.