INHERITANCE AND VARIABILITY OF THE PLANT HEIGHT TRAIT IN CHINESE–UZBEK COTTON GERMPLASM SAMPLES (UNDER A 0:1:0 IRRIGATION REGIME)

Abstract

This study analyzes the inheritance, variability, and formation of plant height (main stem height) in Chinese–Uzbek cotton germplasm accessions and F₂ hybrid populations under a 0:1:0 irrigation regime. Statistical and mathematical analyses were used to evaluate the average growth rate, the range of population variability, and the stability of the trait in varieties and hybrids. The results demonstrated a strong heterosis effect in tall hybrids with vigorous vegetative growth, while short-statured varieties exhibited the presence of growth-restricting genes. Based on the coefficient of variation (V%), the level of genetic stability of the populations was determined, and promising donors, stable varieties, and highly variable F₂ populations were identified for breeding purposes. The findings have significant scientific and practical importance for developing high-yielding, mechanization-friendly cotton cultivars with tall or compact growth habits.