Genetic Variability, Heritability, and Genetic Advance in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Yield and its Component Traits Using Diallel Cross Analysis

The present study aimed to evaluate genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and its component traits in field pea (Pisum sativum L.) through a half-diallel cross involving ten genetically diverse parents. Fifty-five F hybrids along with 11 parental lines were evaluated under timely sown conditions at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya (U.P.), using a randomized block design. Eleven traits, including phenological, morphological, and yield attributes, were assessed. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant genotypic differences for all traits, indicating substantial genetic variability. High heritability (>80%) coupled with moderate to high genetic advance was observed for key traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, pods per plant, 100-seed weight, and seed yield per plant, suggesting predominant additive gene action and effectiveness of direct selection. Traits like seeds per pod and first flowering node showed moderate heritability and greater environmental influence, implying the need for multi-cycle selection. A narrow difference between PCV and GCV for most traits indicated minimal environmental impact. Overall, the study demonstrates the existence of adequate genetic variation among the genotypes, providing a valuable genetic base for developing high-yielding field pea cultivars through selection and hybridization.