ESTIMATION OF GENETIC VARIABILITY OF SEED TRAITS IN BREAD WHEAT

Abstract

Significant genetic variability was observed among the 42 wheat genotypes for seed length and seed width, indicating the presence of substantial exploitable diversity for grain quality improvement. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for both traits. Seed length ranged from 6.445 to 8.388 mm with a mean value of 7.188 mm. Genotype PYT-2516 recorded the maximum seed length (8.388 mm), followed by PYT-2515 and PYT-2501, whereas the check cultivar NIA-Zarkhaiz exhibited the minimum seed length (6.445 mm). Most advanced lines showed superior grain length compared to the check cultivar, and several genotypes surpassed the commercial check IV-3, highlighting their breeding potential. Frequency distribution indicated that the majority of genotypes were clustered within the 6.89–7.34 mm range, while PYT-2516 formed a distinct class with the longest grains. Similarly, grain width showed significant variation among genotypes, ranging from 2.985 to 3.900 mm with an overall mean of 3.49 mm. The genotype PYT-2530 exhibited the maximum grain width (3.900 mm), followed by PYT-2506 (3.700 mm), whereas PYT-2515 recorded the narrowest grains (2.985 mm). Most genotypes were concentrated within the 3.585–3.785 mm class, while PYT-2530 represented the boldest grain class. The wide variation in both grain length and width suggests strong genetic control and provides valuable opportunities for selection and hybridization aimed at improving grain size, grain weight, and overall wheat productivity.