Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis in sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica Roem.)

The performance, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path analysis for yield and yield contributing characters namely total yield per vine (kg), number of fruits per vine, average weight of fruit (g), average length of fruit (cm), average diameter of fruit (cm), days to anthesis of first male flower, days to anthesis of first female flower, node number at which first female flower appeared, days to maturity, number of primary branches, vine length (cm), specific gravity (g/cc), number of seeds per fruit and total soluble solids (oBrix) of 20 sponge gourd genotypes were studied. Significant variations were observed for all the characters in all the genotypes used in the experiment. Highest genotypic and phenotypic variations were observed for total yield per vine followed by number of seeds per fruit, average weight of fruit and total soluble solids. Number of seeds per fruit, average weight of fruit and specific gravity showed high heritability with high genetic advance. Total yield per vine was found to be positively and significantly correlated with number of fruits per vine, average weight of fruit and number of seeds per fruit. Path coefficient analysis revealed that average diameter of fruit, number of primary branches, number of fruits per vine, average weight of fruit and total soluble solids showed positive direct effects on total yield per vine. Hence, selection for these traits for improving yield per vine in sponge gourd is suggested.Keywords: Sponge gourd, direct and indirect effects, genotypes, genetic variability, path analysis, heritability, traitsAfrican Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 12(6), pp. 539-54