Abstract

Genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance were assessed in 28 genotypes of fodder pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum.) The difference between the genotypes were highly significant for all the 18 characters studied. Among the characters, stem weight, green fodder yield per plant, leaf weight, number of tillers per plant and number of leaves per plant showed high genotypic coefficients of variation. Stem weight, green fodder yield per plant, leaf weight, leaf stem ratio, plant height on the 30th day, plant height at harvest, crude protein content and dry matter content had high heritability combined with high genetic advance, These traits are the most suitable for improvement through selection.

Keywords: Fodder pearl millet, Variability, Heritability, Genetic advance.