Genetic Variability And Correlation In Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.)

Ajwain is a very important spice crop of India. The genetic improvement of any crop depends upon its judicious exploitation through efficient breeding methods. The magnitude of genetic variability in the economic characters in modern farming system, few high yielding varieties dominate in cultivation which often lead to genetic homogeneity. It is also well established that genetic homogeneity leads to genetic variability to biotic and abiotic stresses. In any crop breeding programme, germplasm source is the most valuable reservoir in providing variability for various traits. Proper screening and evaluation of germplasm lines would provide an estimate of their potential value as suitable genotypes for utilization in varietal improvement programme. The present study was undertaken to study genetic variation, estimate heritability and genetic advance in 21 different germplasms. It also worked out correlation among the characters as well as path-coefficients.