Genetic variability, correlation and path coefficient analysis under drought in groundnut (<italic>Arachis hypogaea</italic> L.)

Abstract

Groundnut yield in rain fed areas has been limited by drought stress because pod yield and other growth parameters have been severely affected. The aim of this study is to evaluate the genetic variability, character association and path analysis between yield and its contributing traits in 30 groundnut genotypes under drought. Analysis of variance revealed the existence of significant differences among genotypes for all characters studied. The magnitude of PCV and GCV was moderate to high for number of pods per plant, dry haulm yield, kernel yield, plant height and dry pod yield. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for kernel yield, plant height, dry pod yield, and hundred kernel weight indicating the role of additive gene in expressing these traits. Dry pod yield was significant positively correlated with kernel yield, no of pods per plant, hundred kernel weight and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (SCMR). Path coefficient analysis indicated that number of pods per plant and hundred kernel weight were essential traits to be considered for realizing the improvement in yield.