Genetic variability studies in kharif sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]

The present investigation entitled “Genetic Variability Studies in Kharif Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]” was undertaken to assess the extent of genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance among thirty-five sorghum genotypes, including one check. The experiment was conducted during Kharif 2024 using a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Observations were recorded on thirteen quantitative characters. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits under study, indicating the presence of adequate genetic variability. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all traits. High values of GCV and PCV were observed for panicle weight. Heritability estimates were high for all the traits studied, except for the number of leaves, which exhibited moderate heritability. High heritability estimates coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for panicle length, panicle breadth, panicle weight, number of grains per panicle, 1000-seed weight and grain yield per plant. This suggests the predominance of additive gene action and indicates that these traits possess high selective value.