Genetic variability, heritability, and correlation in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) genotypes for tuber yield and nutritional traits at Holetta, central Ethiopia

This study investigates the genetic variability, heritability, and correlation among 24 potato genotypes in Ethiopia, focusing on tuber yield and nutritional traits. The experiment was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Centre in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Yield traits such as average tuber number, weight, and marketable yield were measured, alongside nutritional traits including protein, fat, and ash content. The results revealed significant variability among genotypes for all traits studied. Tuber yield ranged from 24.04 t/ha to 42.68 t/ha, with moisture content ranging from 7.60 to 11.80%, and protein content from 4.33 to 11.80%. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation (GCV and PCV) indicated that traits like fat content, tuber weight, and marketable yield had high variability and potential for genetic selection. Heritability estimates were highest for protein content (98.73%) and lowest for marketable tuber yield (30.05%). Correlation analysis showed strong positive relationships between total and marketable tuber yield and fat content also positively correlated with yield traits. Principal component analysis revealed that the first two axes explained 57.3% of the variance, with protein and ash content contributing significantly to the first axis, while yield traits were dominant in the second axis. The study highlights the importance of integrating both yield and nutritional traits in potato breeding programs to enhance productivity and address nutritional needs in Ethiopia.