Correlation and path analysis in recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of wheat (Trticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

Correlation and path coefficient analysis were studied in 22 heat tolerant Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) of wheat. Analysis of variance revealed the significant difference among genotypes for all the characters. Suggested that there was ample scope for selection of promising RILs for yield improvement. A wide range of variability was exhibited by most of the traits. The results of correlation studies indicated that genotypic correlation coefficients were higher in magnitude than their corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients for all the traits which indicated that association among these characters was under genetic control and indicating the preponderance of genetic variance in expression of characters. Grain yield per plant had high, significant and positive association with number of grains per spike, spike weight, spike length, canopy temperature depression, tillers per plant, grain filling period and chlorophyll content both at genotypic and phenotypic levels indicating that these traits were main yield attributing traits. Path analysis revealed that grains per spike, tillers per plant, spike length, had the highest positive direct effect on grain yield followed by flag leaf length, flag leaf width, days 50% heading, plant height, grain filling period, membrane stability and days to maturity at genotypic level. The selection of characters such as grains per spike, tillers per plant, spike length and spike weight would be helpful for further improvement in RILs of wheat.