Phenotypic variability and trait-specific selection in Aegle marmelos Correa genotypes based on morphological and...

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics and breeding
• Horticultural science
• Agricultural biotechnology

Background:

• Aegle marmelos (bael) is an important fruit crop with significant genetic diversity.
• Understanding genetic variability is crucial for developing improved cultivars with enhanced traits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess genetic variability in Aegle marmelos germplasm.
• To identify superior genotypes and promising clusters for trait-specific breeding.
• To inform selection strategies for developing high-yielding and high-quality bael cultivars.

Main Methods:

• Morphological and qualitative trait evaluation.
• Analysis of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV).
• Heritability estimation, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis.

Main Results:

• High PCV and GCV observed for shell weight, fruit weight, and pulp weight, indicating substantial genetic diversity.
• Genotypes CHESB-25 and CHESB-29 identified as superior selections based on PCA.
• Cluster IV identified as most promising for high fruit yield and quality traits.
• Positive correlation between fruit yield and shell/fruit weight; negative correlation with seed/shell percent and phenolic content.

Conclusions:

• Significant genetic variation exists within Aegle marmelos germplasm.
• Cluster IV and genotypes CHESB-25/CHESB-29 are recommended for breeding programs.
• Targeted selection and potential hybridization can enhance bael fruit yield and quality.