Trait association and genetic variability in browntop millet

Browntop millet (Brachiaria ramosa (L.) Stapf.) is one of forgotten crop with very small grains which is mainly used as food and fodder. It is a climate resilient crop which can come well with limited water. It is highly valued for its high fiber and mineral content in grains. Genetic variability of a crop plays an important role in crop improvement. Hence, present study was attempted to assess the genetic variability and associations of various economic traits at Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram. Significant differences for all twelve traits studied were noticed among 10 browntop millet genotypes. GCV ranged from low (4.63 for plant height) to moderate (12.99 for days to 50% flowering) indicating low to moderate variability. The difference in GCV and PCV was very narrow (less than 0.2) for days to 50% flowering and days to maturity indicating least influence of surrounding environment which was further supported by high value of broad sense heritability (more than 95%) while grain and fodder yield recorded moderate heritability with moderate GAM indicating the presence of both additive and non additive gene action. Selection for high grain and fodder yield can be relied upon selection for more number of days to 50% flowering and days to maturity as grain and fodder yield are significantly associated in positive direction with days to 50% flowering and days to maturity.