Evaluation of Cotton Advanced Lines/Varieties for Genetic Diversity and Correlation Studies of Cotton Leaf Curl Virus Disease with Yield Contributing Traits in Cotton

Plant genetic diversity aids in the creation of new varieties that are more resistant to pests and unfavorable climatic conditions. In order to discover varied parents and assess their cross-performance, the current study was carried out. The findings showed a substantial positive connection (0.81) between green bolls, plant height (0.57), and open bolls, as well as a significant positive correlation (0.52) between open bolls. On the other hand, a highly significant negative connection was discovered between the number of open bolls (-0.59), number of green bolls (-0.72), plant height (-0.78), and major stem nodes (-0.70) for the cotton leaf curl viral disease. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that PC-I and PC-II accounted for 66.6% of the total variance. Plant height and green bolls were found to be positively correlated by PCA biplot analysis, but main stem nodes and open bolls showed a negative link, particularly with cotton leaf curl virus diseases. Based on cluster analysis, genotypes were divided into four clusters. Of these, Cluster-IV stood out because to its strong resistance to the cotton leaf curl virus disease and high yield, making it a good candidate for further breeding efforts. Other clusters include Mac-07, MNH-875, CRP-257, Super Okra, MNH-Super Gold, and GT/Bt Okra. The research emphasizes how crucial it is to use a variety of statistical methods to evaluate genetic diversity and support improved breeding practices. The knowledge that is derived will be useful in creating hybrids for upcoming breeding programs.