Abstract

Forty-two crosses of cowpea derived from 14 lines and 3 testers were utilised for heterosis and combing ability studies for green fodder as well as grain yield and yield components. Scope for exploitation of heterosis in cowpen was indicated with the materials studied. The highest heterotic expression for green fodder yield was recorded by the hybrid UPC 9201 x CO 5 (121.01 per cent) over the standard parent CO 5. The hybrid CS 55 x CO 4 recorded the maximum heterotic effect (215.34 per cent) over the standard parent for seed yield. The GCA:SCA variance ratio for all the traits showed predominance of SCA variance over GCA variance indicating predominance of non-additive gene action. Among the parents, the lines UPC 9103 and UPC 9201 and the tester CO S were found to be the best combiners. Selection of hybrids based on per se performance, seu effects and heterotic effects will be effective.

Keywords: Fodder Cowpea, Yield, Heterosis, Combining Ability