Evaluation of Morpho-physiological Traits of F1 Hybrids and Estimation of Standard Heterosis of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) in Sylhet

Sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a highly demanded crop valued for its culinary and nutritional benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological, physiological, and yield-contributing traits of developed hybrids and check varieties, as well as estimate standard heterosis. The experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Department, Sylhet Agricultural University, from October 2022 to June 2023, using eight hybrids (P3xP1, P4xP3, P6xP5, P5xP1, P7xP1, P5xP3, P3xP2, and P6xP3) and two check varieties (CV1 and CV2). The field and laboratory experiments followed RCBD and CRD designs, respectively, with three replications. Significant morphological variations were observed in growth habit, leaf shape, flower position, fruit color, size, and nodal anthocyanin. The hybrids P5xP1, P7xP1, P6xP5, P3xP2, and P5xP3 exhibited superior morphological, physiological, and yield traits compared to check varieties. Earliness in flowering (30.33 days) and fruit setting (38.33 days) was recorded in P3xP1. Maximum fruit length (13.57 cm) was observed in P5xP1, while the highest fruit diameter (8.71 cm) and individual fruit weight (214.51 g) were found in P3xP2. The highest fruit yield per plant (1.94 kg) and per hectare (61.98 kg) was recorded in P5xP1. Positive standard heterosis was observed for key traits over check variety and mostly developed hybrids showed better performance in all traits compared to check variety. Pearson correlation and PCA analysis revealed key trait associations and genetic variation among sweet pepper hybrids, aiding breeding strategies. Considering morphological, physiological, yield potential and heterosis, P5xP1, P7xP1, P6xP5, P3xP2, and P5xP3 are recommended for further evaluation and breeding programs.