Diallel analysis of the genetic variation in some quantitative traits in dry beans

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Abstract
A diallel analysis of flowering time, pod number, 100-seed weight, and yield of six cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris L. was undertaken at two locations. Both additive and dominance inheritance were important in determining all the traits except for yield. However, the dominance component was higher than the additive component, and over-dominance was observed for pod number and yield. Significant differences were observed between additive genetic effects in different locations for flowering time and 100-seed weight, and between dominance effects in locations in 100-seed weight and yield. Heritability estimates for all the traits except 100-seed weight were very low, and the bulk population method of breeding was suggested for early-segregating generations. Except lor pod number, there apnearcd to be more recessive than dominant genes controlling the traits. The graphical analysis of the diallel cross was in close agreement with the findings from variance component analysis. It is suggested that the best cross would be that between two parents chosen on the basis of their low general combining ability for flowering time and 100-seed weight and their high general combining ability for pod number and yield.