Abstract

Thirty genotypes of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus) were evaluated to study the genetic variability on yield, yield-contributing and related characters. The highest and lowest coefficient of variation was observed for single podded clusters per plant and protein content respectively. Little or no difference between the phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variability in the expression of various horticultural traits studied for protein content, days to 50% flowering, days to first pod set, pod length, pod weight, weight of 10 green pods and days to maturity. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was high for the single podded clusters per plant. Days to 50% flowering, pod length, width of pod, weight of 10 green pods accounted for the higher heritability and higher genetic advance. Significant positive phenotypic correlations were observed between yield other yield components including days to first pod set, days to 50% flowering, number of pods per plant, weight of 10 green pods and length of pod. The genotypes used in the study are of diverse nature and can be used in the breeding programme for development of superior genotypes in Dolichos bean.

Key words: Dolichos bean, correlation, genetic advance, genetic variability, heritability.