Genetic Variability and Crop Improvement Implications in Some Varieties of Capsicum (Family Solanaceae) Cultived in North-East Nigeria

Relationship between the karyological disposition, as it relates to genetic variability and their crop improvement implications was investigated in 14 varieties of Capsicum crops belonging to three species viz: Capsicum annuum Linn., Capsicum frutescens Linn. and Capsicum chinense Jacq. cultivated in north-east Nigeria with an aim of determining which crop improvement regimes would be appropriate for these crops. Chromosomal data for each variety was obtained after hydrolysis of the root tips in 1N HCL and squashing in acetic orcein. Karyotypic parameters such as Total asymmetry, intrachromosomal asymmetry index, interchromosomal asymmetry index and Coefficient of variation were analyzed. Data showed that C chinense varieties will respond positively to improvement regimes such as selection and intraspecific hybridization. Interspecifically, varieties such as C chinense var. red habanero, C frutescens var. deArbol and C annuum var. Pepperoncini were identified as having high crossability potentials, thus, increasing hopes for production of hitherto lacking exotic breeds of this very valuable crop.