Quantification of genetic variability and nutritional traits in forage sorghum germplasm for crop improvement

Abstract:

This comprehensive study investigates the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance of selected agro-morphological and biochemical traits in 42 forage sorghum accessions grown in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand during the Kharif season of 2024. The experiment was designed as a randomized block with three replications to evaluate differences among germplasm for traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, leaf area, fodder yield, total soluble solids, crude protein and HCN content. Results demonstrated significant variability in all traits, with high heritability (>70%) observed for key yield and quality traits, including test weight, total soluble solids and crude protein. Traits with high heritability and genetic advance, such as green fodder yield (45.83%) and seed number per panicle (77.28%), suggest strong additive gene action and the potential for effective improvement through selection. This study provides crucial insights into the genetic potential of forage sorghum germplasm for enhancing forage yield and quality in the region, thereby facilitating targeted breeding strategies for sustainable livestock production.