Genetic Analysis and Selection Criteria in Bambara Groundnut Accessions Based Yield Performance

Abstract

The knowledge of genetic variability and breeding techniques is crucial in crop improvement programs. This information is especially important in underutilized crops such as Bambara groundnut, which have limited breeding systems and genetic diversity information. Hence, this study evaluated the genetic variability and established the relationship between the yield and its components in Bambara groundnut based on seed weight using multivariate analysis. A field trial was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications on 28 lines. Data were collected on 12 agro-morphological traits, and a statistical analysis was conducted using SAS version 9.4 software, while the variance component, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variation, heritability, and genetic advance values were estimated. A cluster analysis was performed using NT-SYS software to estimate the genetic relations among the accessions. The results showed significant variability among the accessions based on the yield and yield component characteristics. The evaluated lines were grouped into seven primary clusters based on the assessed traits using the UPGMA dendrogram. Based on the overall results, G5LR1P3, G1LR1P3, G4LR1P1, G2SR1P1 and G3SR1P4 performed the best for the yield and yield components. These improved lines are recommended for large-scale evaluation and utilization in future breeding programs to develop high-yield Bambara groundnut varieties.

Unveiling Genetic Diversity, Characterization, and Selection of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea L. Verdc) Genotypes Reflecting Yield and Yield Components in Tropical Malaysia

“…According to the results of this study, there is a significant amount of genetic diversity across Bambara groundnut accessions for the quantitative parameters evaluated. Several earlier researchers namely Khan et al [ 15 ], Khan et al [ 17 ], Khiliqi et al [ 8 ], and Khaliqi [ 37 ] effectively apply a similar statistical approach in their genetic diversity research on Vigna subterranea (L.) that confirm our results in this tropical environment. Aliyu et al [ 38 ] conducted a comprehensive study on Bambara groundnuts using a range of morphological features, which confirmed our research findings.…”

“…Singh and Choudhary [ 31 ] proposed a measuring scale for categorizing the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) values as low for 0 to 10%, intermediate for 10 to 20%, and high is ≥20% variance. The genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) for most of the traits were medium to high, a similar pattern of the result was reported by Khan et al [ 15 ], Khaliqi et al [ 8 ] in Bambara groundnut diversity assessment. Direct selection would be effective using the traits of low RD values due to less influence by environmental factors.…”

“…Similarly, characteristics with low heritability and genetic advance suggested that the traits are regulated by nonadditive (dominance and/or epistasis) genes, environmental influences, or a combination of these two variables. Therefore, it is perfectly reasonable to prioritize traits with greater genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV), with the lowest relative differences, moderate to high heritability as well as genetic advance [ 8 , 17 ].…”

“…The research fields were irrigated on a regular basis with a sprinkler irrigation system, and weeding was controlled with silver shine covering and, if essential, manual hand weeding. NPK (15 : 15 : 15+2S) green and NPK (12 : 12 : 17-2+8S+TE) blue were applied in split doses two and six weeks after planting [ 8 ].…”

“…One of the reasons for Bambara groundnut's low yield is the usage of local landraces [ 7 ]. Khaliqi et al [ 8 ] reported that the yield of Bambara groundnut varied from 0.97 ton/ha to 3.12 ton/ha, though it has the ability to produce a higher yield up to 4 to 5 ton/ha under optimum conditions and standard cultivation procedures [ 9 , 10 ].…”