Physiological traits in integration with yield and yield components in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) study of their genetic variability and correlation

Abstract

The present study was aimed to determine whether physiological traits could be taken into the selection criteria in integration with yield and yield components to achieve a successful breeding programme. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for MSS values of all 50 lines for all the traits under study. High Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) and Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) on the basis of pooled data was obtained for grain yield per plot, tillers per m2, harvest index and 1000-grain weight. Among the physiological traits high PCV and GCV was obtained for seed vigour index and leaf nitrogen while chlorophyll-a, b and total chlorophyll records moderate estimates of PCV and GCV. Heritability accompanied with high genetic advance as percent mean was observed highest for grain yield per plot, seed vigour index, leaf nitrogen content, harvest index, spike length, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, chlorophyll b and chlorophyll-a, suggesting selection for these traits may be rewarding. All the physiological traits along with yield components exhibited significantly positive correlation with grain yield per plot at both phenotypic and genotypic levels. On the basis of study it is suggested there is a great need to give emphasis on physiological breeding approach to integrate with conventional breeding methods as compliment factor to break present yield ceiling and develop photosynthetically efficient and stress tolerant wheat varieties. Further the above said physiological traits which have significant correlation with yield and high heritability accompanied with genetic advance should be taken into the selection criteria for breeding methods. © 2011 Knowledgia Review, Malaysia.