Traits associated with pod yield, seed Fe, and Zn contents in Okra landraces: a path analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Micronutrient malnourishment is a problem in developing countries, most especially among women and preschool children. Breeding okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L) Moench] for high seed contents of micronutrients in a high pod yielding background may contribute to correcting this problem. This requires evaluating micronutrients association with agro-morphological and seed elemental traits. Field evaluations were conducted with 20 okra landraces during 2016 and 2017 at Abeokuta, Nigeria. Genotypic correlation, regression and path analyses were performed to determine key driving traits of high pod yield, and seed iron and zinc contents. There were significant differences in landraces in the agronomic and nutritional traits. Correlation analysis indicated a positive, significant, relationship between plant height at flowering and maturity, and number of seed per pod with pod yield. Regression analysis indicated number of pods per plant was the most important trait for pod yield improvement as it retained the highest coefficient of determination. Path analysis identified tall plants with more pods be used for improvement of pod yield. Heavier seed should be used for improvement of seed iron content, seed magnesium and potassium contents should be targeted to achieve seed zinc content improvement. Plant height and number of pods per plant should be focused on in improvement of pod yield in okra. The 100-seed weight could serve as a major selection criterion to achieve increased seed iron content. Determination of other yield-related, and nutritional, traits might provide additional insight into improving pod yield and seed elemental minerals in okra.