Genetic variability and association studies in F2 populations of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Groundnut is an extensively self-pollinating crop with a narrow genetic base; therefore, it relies on the F2 generation for optimal segregation and recombination. The genetic variability resulting from segregation and re- combination is essential for effective selection in crop improvement pro- grammes. F2 populations derived from the crosses BSR 2 × GPBD 4 and BSR 2 × TMV 2 were assessed for examining genetic variation, and correla- tion coefficients along path coefficients. Twenty-four yield-attributing, physiological, as well as biochemical characteristics were covered in the research, in the Kharif season of 2024. The assessment of the PCV along with GCV revealed that a majority of yield-related traits, including the number of pods, kernels, and pod yield, demonstrated high PCV along with GCV in both crosses, indicating substantial genetic variation. Regarding yield-related characteristics, high GAM along with high heritability in a broad sense were noted for both the crosses, suggesting that a breeding approach based on simple selection can be successful in increasing groundnut yield. Correla- tion and path coefficients indicated that the number of mature kernels and pod yield calculated for each plant possessed a high positive direct effect on kernel yield. Transgressive segregants were identified over twice the stand- ard deviation of the better parent mean for various traits. These findings can serve as a foundation for future breeding programmes aimed at enhancing the yield and oil content.