Performance of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [l.] Walp.) Genotypes as Measured by Genetic Parameters

Abstract

This research study was performed with thirty-six cowpea genotypes to determine their performance for yield and yield related attributes in two pooled locations in a randomized system accross three replicates. Measurement of their different genetic parameters indicated high values of genetic variances for grain yield (390107) and plant height (37.96). High values for genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance were great for grain yield, pod weight and LAI characters, thus exhibiting the possibility of effective selection. The wide genetic variability observed in the cowpea genotypes could be exploited through improvement programs.

Keywords: Cowpea, heritability, genotypic coefficient of variation, grain yield, plant height