Trait association and variability study for biochemical and yield related traits in onion (Allium cepa L.)

Abstract

The present investigation assessed trait association and variability in biochemical and yield-related parameters in seventeen onion genotypes at ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, Rajgurunagar, Pune, during rabi seasons. The studied material included varieties, hybrids and promising lines of onion. On the basis of two years of pooled data, DOGR-344 recorded the highest marketable and total yield (385.53 and 398.55 q/ha, respectively) as well as the maximum average bulb weight (62.23 g). The hybrid BSS-133 recorded the highest pyruvic acid content (5.49 μmol/g), followed by Bhima Shweta (5.22 μmol/g) and hybrid DOGR WHY-2 (4.89 μmol/g). The DOGR Hy-8 (3.92%) and Bhima Kiran (2.91%) recorded the highest amount of reducing and non-reducing sugar content, respectively. Total soluble solids content was highest in L-355 (11.72%) followed by DOGR-361 (11.65%) and RGP-2 (11.63%). Marketable and total yield showed a significant positive correlation with average bulb weight, days to harvest, pyruvic acid content, non-reducing sugar content and total soluble solids. These traits have a significant negative correlation with neck thickness, percentage doubles and bolter bulbs. Findings from this investigation will be helpful in the selection of trait-specific genotypes for further improvement in onion.