Genetic variability studies in Gerbera

Five genotypes of gerbera were evaluated to determine genetic variability,heritability, genetic advance and genetic gain for eleven contributing characters. Significantvariations were recorded for the various characters studied. Phenotypic and genotypiccoefficients of variation were highest for number of flowers per plant and leaf area index,indicating presence of sufficient genetic variability for selection in these traits. Highheritability and high genetic advance for number of leaves per plant and number of flowersper plant indicated the presence of additive gene effects in these traits and their amicabilityfor direct selection. The non additive gene effects were evident in number of suckers perplant, flower dry weight and flower stalk diameter thus warranting use of heterosis breedingfor these characters. The selection on the basis of number of flowers per plant will be moreeffective for further breeding programme.