Cotton breeders identify genetic shortcuts to boost yield and fiber quality
Researchers mapping genetic traits in upland cotton have discovered that plant structure—particularly branch development—directly influences productivity, offering breeders a faster path to improved varieties. The findings could accelerate cotton breeding programs in regions like Pakistan, where genetic selection currently relies on lengthy field trials and manual testing.
Originaltitel: Estimation of Heritability and Correlation for Earliness, Yield, and Fiber Quality Traits in Cotton (<i>Gossypium hirsutum</i> L.)
The present study was conducted during the 2023 cropping season at the Agriculture Research Cotton Institute (A.R.C.), Tandojam, to determine genetic variability, association, and heritability estimates for earliness, yield, and fiber-related traits in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Several cotton genotypes were evaluated for key quantitative and qualitative traits including plant height, monopodial and sympodial branches, number of bolls per plant, boll weight, lint weight, seed cotton yield, and ginning out turn (GOT). Significant differences were observed among genotypes for most of the studied traits, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability. Genotype D-82 exhibited maximum plant height, while D-85 showed superiority in sympodial branches and number of bolls per plant. Mehran (check variety) produced the highest lint weight, whereas D-88 recorded the highest ginning out turn. Correlation analysis revealed that plant height and sympodial branches had a significant positive association with number of bolls per plant, suggesting their importance in yield improvement. Conversely, negative associations were observed between boll number and boll weight, as well as GOT. Heritability estimates indicated that several yield-contributing traits were under genetic control, providing opportunities for effective selection. Overall, the results suggest that genotypes D-85 and D-88 possess desirable traits and may be utilized in cotton breeding programs aimed at improving earliness, yield, and fiber quality.