Genetic Relationship Between Foliage Yield and its Biochemical Components in Vegetable Amaranth. Issue 4 (3rd July 2016) - Shukla, Sudhir
ABSTRACT: Vegetable amaranth ( Amaranthus tricolor L.) is an alternative source of protein and nutrients in developing countries. The investigation was undertaken to examine genetic variability and genetic and phenotypic associations for foliage yield and quality traits to improve vegetable amaranth. The objective was to obtain high foliage-yielding varieties rich in nutritional components. There was considerable natural and genetic variability in the quality traits. The genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic (PCV) coefficients of variation were high for Cu and Mn and moderate for chlorophyll (Chl) a and b, Fe, Ni, and Zn. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain occurred for all traits except for moisture, fiber, total phenol content, and carbohydrate content. The phenotypic correlation between foliage yield and carotenoid content was significant and positive. Chl a, protein, carbohydrate, total phenol, and Fe had positive direct effects on foliage yield. The elements Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Zn and Chl a and b were major contributing traits toward foliage yield. Strains AV-55, AV-61, and AV-62 were best for foliage yield or quality traits in vegetable amaranth. Selection strategies based on these traits could enhance foliage yield in vegetable amaranth.