Correlation and path coefficient analysis for yield and its contributing traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between grain yield and its contributing characters through correlation and path coefficient analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Thirty genotypes were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Eleven quantitative traits were studied. Correlation analysis revealed that grain yield exhibited positive association with several yield contributing traits. Path coefficient analysis partitioned the correlation into direct and indirect effects, indicating that biological yield, harvest index, and fertile seeds per panicle had strong direct effects on grain yield. These traits can be used as selection criteria in breeding programs for yield improvement.