Genetic Variability and Character Association in Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.)

Abstract

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) belong to family cucurbitaceae is used as desert fruit and vegetable in variety ofways. Muskmelon is rich in quality and nutritive value. Evaluation ofthe available variability is prerequisite for planning the value added improvement programme. The germplasm, which maintain in heterogeneous environment may be genetically diverse and can provide a plenty of scope for screening the better genotype with specific traits. Knowledge on the nature and magnitude of variation provide a rational choice of character(s) on which selection can be exercised. The observed variability is a combined estimate of genetic and environmental factors, of which only former one is heritable. However the estimate of heritability alone does not provide an idea about the expected gain in next generation, therefore it has been considered in conjunction with genetic advance. Correlation and path analysis establish the extent of association between yield and its components and also bring out relative importance of their direct and indirect effects. This gives aclear understanding oftheir association with yield. Hence, the present study was carried out to assess the performance of various economic traits and to measure the extent of variability, heritability, expected genetic advance and interrelationship ofyield components in muskmelon.