Genetic variability studies in ridge gourd under arid environment

Abstract

Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula L.) is an important cucurbit native to India. Despite economic and nutritive importance, not much attempts have been made on its genetic improvement for cultivation under stressed arid environment. Considering the available genetic variability with respects to yield and other desirable characters, the study was carried out with a view to assess the scope of improvement in ridge gourd through selecting promising genotype. The experimental material for the present investigation consisted of 20 genotypes collected from the tribal areas of Rajasthan and northern Gujarat. These were evaluated at the experimental farm of Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner under arid agroclimatic conditions.