Genetic variability, analysis of genetic parameters, character associations and contribution for agronomical traits in turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

Sixty-five germplasms of Curcuma longa L. were screened for high rhizome yield. The considerable amount of natural and genetic variability in thirteen agro-morphological traits was recorded. The estimate of broad sense heritability (boolean AND h(BS)(2)%) was high for plant height (99.05) and genetic advance (GA) for fresh weight of rhizome (201.02). Genotypic (G) and phenotypic (P) correlation coefficient among traits revealed that leaves width were highly significant and positively correlated with length of stipulated tuber (0.62**G, 0.48**P); dry weight of rhizome with thickness of stipulated tuber (0.98**G, 0.96**P) and fresh weight of rhizome with days to germination (0.97**G, 0.94**P). Fresh weight of rhizome exhibited highest PCV (38.18%) and GCV (33.16%). The path coefficient analysis revealed that the highest direct contribution to rhizome thickness was made by dry weight of rhizome (1.10). The direct contribution toward total rhizome yield was highest for dry weight of rhizome followed by length of stipulated tuber, respectively. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.