Genetic variability of panicle architecture and nutritional parameters in indigenous finger millet genotypes from Koraput, Eastern Ghats of India

Abstract

Exploration of genetic variability in indigenous germplasm is an essential step for future breeding programs. The present study evaluated the genetic variation on panicle traits, proximate compositions and nutraceuticals in 33 traditional finger millet genotypes and five improved varieties from Koraput, Eastern Ghats of India. Significant difference of panicle characteristics: panicle length, panicle number, panicle weight and seed weight were observed among finger millet genotypes under experimental field condition. The yield was varied from 13.2 to 32.4 q ha⁻¹. The proximate compositions such as moisture significantly varied from 9.4 to 18.4 g 100 g⁻¹, ash 1.2–3.5 g 100 g⁻¹, fat 0.9–2.7 g 100 g⁻¹, protein 4.7–14.25 g 100 g⁻¹, carbohydrate 66.6–77.1 g 100 g⁻¹, fiber 4.7–18.3 g 100 g⁻¹ and energy 324–360 kcal 100 g⁻¹. The phenol, flavonoid, vitamin C and antioxidant capacity of studied millets were varied from 5.6 to 25.36 mg 100 g⁻¹, 2.75–39.36 mg 100 g⁻¹, 7.2–76.80 µg g⁻¹ and 1.9–15.75%, respectively. The first two axis of principal component analysis explained 39.7% of total variation, which reflected huge difference between explored genotypes. The highest positive loading was observed for seed weight followed by fiber, panicle weight, energy, protein, antioxidant and fat and are the major determinant for phenotypic variability. The heritability and genetic advance varied from 66.7 to 99.0% and 3.4 to 88.4%, respectively. Indigenous finger millet genotypes: Bhalu, Ladu, Telugu and Bada recorded superior panicle traits and energy content, whereas Mami, Janha and Bada rich in flavonoid and antioxidants. These genotypes can be utilized in future crop improvement program.