Genetic Diversity and Heritability Studies for Yield and Yield Related Attributes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Evaluation and identification of superior genotypes for general cultivation is considered as crucial concern for any successful breeding scheme. This field experiment was performed at agriculture research station Baffa Mansehra to check variability among different wheat varieties during 2020. Thirty-six wheat varieties along with 2 check cultivar were sown in randomized complete block design (RCB) in two replications. Data recorded for days to emergence, days to heading, days to maturity, plant height, tillers m-2, length of spike, 1000-grain weight, biological yield plot-1 and grain yield plot-1. Data results showed highly significant variations (p<0.01) for days to emergence, days to heading, days to maturity, tiller m-2, thousand grain weight, grain yield plot-1 and significant for (p<0.05) plant height, spike length and biological yield. Variety Shakkar-2013, Fahim-19 and NIFA Awaz produced maximum grain yield plot-1 (0.900) kg, (0.856) kg and (0.854) kg respectively, whereas the minimum grain yield plot-1 (0.350) kg, (0.360) kg was recorded for Wadaan 2017 and PR-138. High heritability recorded for days to emergence, heading days, days to maturity, thousand grain weight, tillers per m2, biological yield and grain yield while moderate for plant height and length of spike. Based on the present research varieties Shakkar-2013 (0.900kg), Fahim-19 (0.856kg) and NIFA Awaz (0.854kg per plot), appeared as the best performing varieties and could be recommended for commercial cultivation at Hazara region.