Genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance in interspecific and intergeneric clones of sugarcane

This study evaluated twenty sugarcane genotypes, including interspecific and intergeneric clones alongside standard check varieties, under controlled irrigation at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, Pantnagar, India. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with three replications, and twelve morphological and quality traits were assessed, such as germination percentage, tiller number, cane length and diameter, number of millable canes, juice quality parameters, single cane weight, commercial cane sugar (CCS), and cane yield. Analysis of variance revealed significant genetic variability among the genotypes for all traits, confirming the presence of considerable diversity. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was consistently higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), indicating a moderate influence of environmental factors on trait expression. Traits related to yield and biomass exhibited substantial genetic variability, while juice quality traits showed comparatively lower variation. High broad-sense heritability coupled with significant genetic advance was observed for most yield-related traits, suggesting that these are primarily governed by additive gene effects and can respond well to selection. In contrast, quality traits such as juice purity and sucrose content showed lower heritability and genetic advance, reflecting the greater impact of environmental factors or complex genetic control. Overall, the findings highlight substantial genetic variability and the potential for effective selection in sugarcane breeding programs, particularly for improving yield and sugar recovery. This study provides valuable insights and a strong genetic foundation for future crop improvement efforts aimed at enhancing both productivity and quality in sugarcane.