Genetics of fruit size in chilli

Abstract

Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) is an important spice or condiment as well as vegetable crop of India and is mostly grown in the tropical and sub-tropical regions. Fruit length and breadth are important traits influencing chilli yield. A number of varieties/hybrids have been bred in chilli in the recent past, but the yield and quality plateau could not be broken simultaneously. This is because of poor understanding of the nature of gene action for various yield attributes. Therefore, the present investigation was taken up with the objective of studying the gene action for fruit length and breadth so that inference drawn from the study could be utilized in formulating breeding strategies.