Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield, Quality and their Component Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Investigation was carried out at the Agricultural research Institute, Hyderabad, during kharif 2018-19 with the objective of assessing the trait association and direct and indirect effects of yield and quality related traits on grain yield in fifty rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes. Among eighteen characters, panicle length, 1000-grain weight, kernel L/B ratio, kernel length after cooking and kernel elongation ratio had positive and highly significant association with seed yield and positive correlation with kernel length, alkali spread value and gel consistency. Genotypic path coefficient analysis of seed yield revealed that milling, kernel length after cooking, 1000-grain weight and panicle length exerted highest positive direct effect on grain yield. The existence of strong positive correlation between grain yield and other traits helps in identifying traits that could be used for indirect selection for the improvement of grain yield, Therefore, to facilitate selection in breeding for high yield, quality and other desirable traits. Hence emphasis can be laid out on these traits and give more attention to those having the greatest influence on grain yield.