Genetic Analysis of Yield and Its Component Traits in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Using Half-Diallel Crosses Under Timely Sown Conditions

Abstract

The present investigation assessed genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance in field pea (Pisum sativum L.) through a half-diallel mating design involving ten diverse parental genotypes. Fifty-five F₁ hybrids and 11 parents were evaluated under timely sown conditions at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, U.P., using a randomized block design. Significant genotypic differences were found for all eleven traits studied, including phenological, morphological, and yield components. High heritability (>80%) coupled with moderate to high genetic advance for traits like days to 50% flowering, plant height, pods per plant, 100-seed weight, and seed yield per plant indicates the predominance of additive gene action and suggests the efficacy of direct selection. Traits such as seeds per pod and first flowering node showed moderate heritability and were more environmentally influenced, suggesting the need for refined breeding strategies. The narrow gap between GCV and PCV for most traits indicated limited environmental influence. Overall, the findings highlight the potential for genetic improvement through selection and provide a valuable base for field pea breeding.