Evaluation of Foxtail genotypes in Nagaland ecosystem for yield and yield related traits

Abstract

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is one of the least studied crops in terms of genetic resource characterisation and genetic enhancement while compared to major cereals. Hundred foxtail millet lines representing the national collection were evaluated at Medziphema, Nagaland University in summer-2022. Fodder yield per plant exhibited high estimates of phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation followed by biological yield, grain yield per plant, total number of tillers per plant, flag leaf width, panicle length and panicle width. All the characters under study showed high heritability coupled with high values of genetic advance as percent mean (except days to 50% flowering and days to maturity) which indicates that the traits were mostly governed by additive gene action. Grain yield per plant showed positive and significant association with panicle length, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, peduncle length, total tiller numbers per plant, panicle width, biological yield, harvest index, fodder yield per plant. Path analysis identified days to 50% flowering, peduncle length, total number of tillers, panicle width, biological yield and harvest index exhibited positive direct effects on grain yield/plant indicating their significant role during selection in yield improvement program.