MORPHOLOGICAL AND REPRODUCTIVE ATTRIBUTES OF SELECTED CUCUMBER GENOTYPES UNDER HUMID TROPICAL CONDITION
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Abstract
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is an important vegetable crop that contributes to household nutrition, income generation, and food security, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria where vegetables provide affordable sources of essential vitamins and minerals. This study evaluated the performance and genetic variability of selected cucumber genotypes under humid tropical conditions in Calabar (May to July, 2021), to identify high-yielding genotypes and key traits associated with fruit yield to support sustainable vegetable production. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications, and data were collected on vegetative growth, flowering, yield components, and total fruit yield. Substantial variation was observed among the genotypes for most of the traits evaluated, indicating considerable genetic diversity and potential for improvement. Considering earliness in flowering and maturity, Kayin, Amarisa C16 and Nandini 732 performed better than others. Across other traits, Kayin, Amarisa C16, Oliveira C14, and Nandini 732 consistently showed superior performance, making them promising candidates for further breeding and wider cultivation.
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