Investigating the variability in dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus) yield and yield- contributing attributes using a character association and route analysis method

Abstract

In order to assess the degree of diversity in dolichos bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet] genotypes for significant horticultural variables and
their correlations, an experiment was carried out in 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture,
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Significant genetic variety among the genotypes was evidenced by the observed range and mean variations of the
variables under study. Environmental influences have little to no effect on the phenotypic expression of these characteristics, as seen by the
little difference between the genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for defined characters. Pod yield, days to first
flowering, pod weight, plant height, and pod breadth were among the variables that had positive GCV, suggesting the existence of additive
gene activity. High heritability and modest genetic advance were seen in variables including pod weight, days to first flowering, and pod
breadth. This suggests that the high heritability of these traits is caused by the effects of additive genes and that genetic gain may be anticipated
via phenotypic selection. An innate relationship between the qualities was shown by the stronger genotypic correlations. Consequently, the
strong character link between plant height, number of pods/cluster, pod width, and pod weight provided the basis for the selection criteria for
high yield. The greatest direct beneficial impact on yield was seen in the number of pods per plant, followed by the number of clusters per
plant. Therefore, choosing heavier pods, more clusters per plant, and more pods per cluster may all boost pod output.