Variability, Interrelationship, and Path Analysis for Yield Improvement in Luffa

Abstract

The assessment of variability in crop aids in successful utilization of plant characters in developing suitable varieties for yield and stability. Luffa (Luffa cylindrica L.) accessions were evaluated during June–Oct. 2011 to estimate the magnitude of genetic variability and yield character associations. Genotypic coefficient of variation and heritability estimates were high for fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruit per plant, and number of branches per plant. Genotypic coefficients of variation and heritability estimates were low for days to first male flower anthesis, days to first female flower anthesis, and days to first harvest. Vine length, number of branches per plant, fruit diameter, and number of fruit per plant were positively correlated with fruit yield per plant. Path analysis indicated that number of fruit per plant and fruit weight had the highest positive direct effect on fruit yield per plant. Vine length, fruit length, number of fruit per plant, and fruit weight can be used as selection criteria to increase fruit yield in luffa.