Assessment of Genetic Variability and Morphological Characterization of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) Genotypes

Abstract

A comparative evaluation of eight eggplant genotypes was undertaken to assess their growth, flowering, and yield-related characteristics at the Vegetable Research Unit, Department of Horticulture, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi. The experiment comprised eight genotypes representing different eggplant varieties and was conducted using a Randomised Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The study of the characteristics of different eggplant genotypes (Solanum melongena L.) provided valuable information about the diversity and variation present within the species. The genotypes exhibited a high degree of morphological and genetic variability, making eggplant an ideal crop for selection and genetic improvement. Observations on morphological characters, growth, and yield attributes of the eggplant crop were recorded. The results revealed significant variation among the genotypes for all the studied traits, indicating the presence of ample genetic diversity. The growth and yield parameters were found to be significant in genotype CB-1 (Birsa Chianki Baigan-1). The highest values of GCV and PCV were observed for leaf area (cm2) and leaf area index. The higher values of PCV than GCV for all studied traits indicate the importance of considering environmental factors when selecting genotypes with desirable traits. These findings could be useful for future breeding programmes aimed at improving eggplant cultivars for better yield and quality.