Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Tinda Gourd Through Multivariate Analysis
There is insufficient information available concerning the genetics and association of yield components in Tinda gourd (Citrullus vulgaris var. fistulosus Stocks). Sixteen genotypes of Tinda gourd were used to estimate genetic variability, strength and direction of association, and direct/indirect effects of morphological traits on fresh fruit yield. Considerable genetic variability occurred among genotypes for all traits. The majority of variation was genetic in nature as indicated by similar values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation. High heritability coupled with low genetic advance for leaf area, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of vines per plant, number of fruit per plant, and fruit yield indicated nonadditive gene action. Fruit weight had additive gene action as indicated by high heritability and genetic advance. Fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, and number of fruit per plant had a strong positive association; numbers of vines per plant were negatively correlated wi...