Assessment of genetic variability and heritability of recently released Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] varieties in Awi zone, Western Ethiopia

The present study was conducted in Awi zone in Jawi District, Western Ethiopia to evaluate and identify well-adapted promising varieties and estimate heritability associated with genetic variability. The experiment comprised 13 varieties, including a local check using RCBD with three replications. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the varieties for most traits except days to seedling emergency and total biomass. Based on the result, the highest grain yield was recorded for DZ-Cr-438 (1056.7 kg ha-1), followed by Areka-1 (945.0 kg ha-1). The highest phenotypic coefficient of disparity (PCV) was recorded for days to 50% seedling emergence, plant height, and grain yield. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) estimates was higher for panicle length and grain yield. High expected genetic advance values were observed for plant height and grain yield. This study found genetic variability for some important traits and suggested direct selection to improve grain yield.