Genetic architecture of quantitative traits in table pea (Pisum sativum L.)

The genetic studies for pod yield and its contributing traits viz, days to flowering, plant length (cm), 1^st fruiting node length (cm), number of branches per plant, pod length (cm), pod width (cm), seeds per pod, seed shell ratio and pods per plant was carried out in Fl generation of 11 parent diallel cross in table pea. Additive genetic variance was found significant for, five traits viz., plant length, first fruiting node length, branches per plant, pod length and pod width while non-additive genetic component was significant for other traits. Regression coefficient also indicated the importance of non-allelic interaction of genes in most traits. Both dominant and recessive alleles were important for the expression of these traits. A breeding method which would be effective for simultaneous exploitation of both additive and non-additive gene effects shall be useful.