Genetic analysis of yield and yield-related traits in adapted finger millet germplasm

Background: Finger millet is an underutilised crop with high nutritional value and resilience in marginal environments, yet limited genetic research on yield and yield-related traits has constrained the development of improved varieties. Aim: This research analysed yield traits in adapted finger millet germplasm to establish a foundation for systematic breeding and the development of high-yielding varieties through the exploitation of heterosis. Setting: Trials were conducted at the Lupane State University farm during the 2023 and 2024 summer seasons. Methods: Ten F1 finger millet hybrids were developed in season one using the Line*Tester method and evaluated in season two for combining ability and heterosis. Results: Line 5045 exhibited highly significant general combining ability (GCA) effects for number of productive tillers, threshing percentage and grain yield. The cross 5327*FMV1 displayed highly significant specific combining ability (SCA) effects for grain yield. Most F1 hybrids expressed significant heterosis, largely driven by overdominance gene action. Baker’s ratios close to unity for finger length (0.83), grain yield (0.84) and thousand-grain weight (0.67) indicated a predominance of additive gene effects. Early genetic gain is expected from selecting superior parents (5045 and 5327) and their hybrids (5045*FMV2 and 5327*FMV1), which combine high GCA, strong SCA and favourable heterotic effects. Conclusion: The study confirms that heterosis and combining ability can be effectively harnessed to improve yield in finger millet. Contribution: This research advances knowledge on finger millet genetics, providing practical insights for breeding improved varieties of this crop to strengthen food security.