Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient analysis in Multi-parent Derived F2 Population of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Genetic variability, correlation and path coefficient analysis for 8 yield contributing traits were studied in multi-parent derived F2 population obtained from crossing 4 commercial hybrids (S-85×IndamRohini) × (Mahyco-701×Indus-1105). For the current study, 285 multi-parent derived F2 plants were used. The study indicated the presence of immense variability for all the traits under study viz, days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight and fruit yield per plant. High variability was witnessed due to the higher values of PCV and GCV and large variation in the F2 range for all the traits in comparison with the parental range of all the traits. This might be due to the involvement of the genome constitution from multiple parents. All the characters exhibited high estimates of heritability coupled with high genetic advance, hence all the characters can be improved through selection. Correlation indicated that yield per plant was significantly and positively associated with average fruit weight and number of fruits per plant. Average fruit weight and number of fruits per plant showed the highest positive direct effect on fruit per plant. Direct selection can be executed considering these traits as the main selection criteria to minimize the indirect effect of other traits. The genetic variability displayed in the present study can be well exploited to broaden the genetic base of the crop. Meantime, the efficient use of significant correlation and the relatedness in the commercially target traits can yield fruits of rapid trait improvement in near future.