Genetic Studies in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus.)

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) is one of the major grain legume crops and play very important role in the supply of the protein to under nourished vegetarian population of the country. It has a wide range of adaptability to latitudes, longitudes and climatic variables. Knowledge on the genetic architecture of genotypes is necessary to formulate efficient breeding methodology. The systematic breeding programme involves the steps like creating genetic variability practicing selection and utilization of selected genotypes to evolve promising varieties. Identification of better genotypes with desirable traits and their subsequent use in breeding programme and establishment of suitable selection criterion can helpful for successful varietals improvement programme. Analysis of variability among the traits would be of great importance in planning a successful breeding program. Information on the extent of genetic variability as well as heritability among the agronomically important traits is the requirement to design a suitable plant breeding method.