Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance of Some Tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) Varieties in Bench Maji Zone South Western, Ethiopia

Abstract

Assessing variability is fundamental to identify the most important traits in tef improvement program. The objective of the present study was to estimate variability, heritability and genetic advance based on twelve morphological characters of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter.). The experiment was conducted in 2015 and 2016 main cropping seasons in three locations of Bench-Maji Zone by using randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) among genotypes for all characters considered in all locations except grain filling period at Guraferda. The maximum value between PCV and GCV was recorded forharvesting index both South Bench and Guraferda and by biomass yield at Sheko. High phenotypic coefficient of variation was recorded for days to emergency, grain yield, biomass yield and harvesting index in all environments in addition high PCV was recorded by number of primary panicle brunch at South Bench. GCV of high order was observed on grain yield, biomass yield and harvesting index in all locations. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for culm length and plant height at Guraferda and culm length, plant height, days to heading at Sheko. These traits are most likely controlled by both additive and non-additive gene actions. Therefore, any improvement of these characters would result in a substantial increment on grain yield. Evaluation for variability of tef using conventional approach still could provide vital information but using contemporary molecular genetic analysis approaches such as mapping of quantitative trait loci using molecular markers is helpful to understand variability at molecular level, improve selection knowledge and arrive at more comprehensive conclusions.

Keywords: Genetic advance, Heritability, Morphological Characters, Tef, Variability