Estimation of Genetic Diversity for Yield and Yield Components in Pearl Millet

Abstract

Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] is one of the most significant cultivated cereals. It demonstrates remarkable genetic diversity due to its wide distribution across the globe and its adaptability to harsh environmental conditions. A multi-location experiment was conducted in Srikakulam (Location 1), Vizianagaram (Location 2), and Patancheru (Location 3) during Kharif 2021 to investigate genetic diversity in a world diversity panel of pearl millet based on grain yield and its component traits using principal component analysis (PCA). The PCA revealed that first three principal components with eigen values greater than one accounted for about 69% of the total variation in location 1, 66% in location 2, and two components accounted for 62% in location 3. The first principal component showed high positive loadings for HI and PHI in locations 1 and 2 and for PWT and GYLD in location 3. Traits such as TGWT, PH, and PL contributed positively to the total variation in all three locations. This genetic variability can thus be effectively utilized in pearl millet breeding programs.