UNLOCKING THE GENETIC POTENTIAL OF CHILI THROUGH COMBINING ABILITY STUDIES

Abstract

Using a 6x6 diallel mating design that eliminates reciprocals, this study examines the genetic potential of six genotypes of chilies (Capsicum annuum). Evaluation of the types of gene action controlling important yield-related traits, such as fruit length, fruit width, fruit weight, number of seeds per fruit, number of fruits per plant, plant height, and yield per plant, as well as general and specific combining abilities (GCA and SCA) were the main objectives of the study. Significant variations were found between genotypes for every variable under investigation, according to analysis of variance, suggesting that there is a great deal of genetic diversity. Fruit length, width, weight, plant height, and yield were among the attributes for which GCA effects were substantial, indicating the additive nature of the gene effects. On the other hand, the number of seeds per fruit and the number of fruits per plant were mostly affected by SCA effects, indicating the significance of non-additive gene activity. P4 is a possible choice for breeding programs since it showed the strongest favorable GCA impacts for fruit weight and length among the parents. On the other hand, P3 showed lower suitability as seen by negative GCA impacts on plant height and yield. Promising hybrid combinations, such P1×P5 and P3×P6, were also found in the study. These combinations showed notable favorable SCA effects and might be used to increase yield. The results provide useful information for future breeding methods by highlighting the significance of both additive and non-additive gene activities in the development of yield attributes in chili.