Correlations and correlated responses in sugarcane ( Saccharum officianum L.)

Studies were carried out for two years at two locations to determine the inter character relationships between various quantitative traits of sugarcane, using eight genetically diversified sugarcane clones. The experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Performance data were used to obtain correlations between ten agronomic and seven quality traits in sugarcane. Correlation coefficients obtained between cane yield and all the important yield components were positive and significant except for stalk diameter and leaf width. The correlation coefficients revealed that stalk weight, stalk height, number of stalks per stoll, leaf area, juice and commercial cane sugar percentages were the major traits contributing to cane and sugar yield. Stem diameter, an important component of yield, is positively correlated with stalk weight, stalk height and leaf area. Path Coefficient analysis which unlike correlation, specifies the causes of the association and their importance, showed that stalk weight, stalk height, number of stalks per stool, had high direct effect on cane yield. Stalk diameter was indirectly related to its weight and height. Estimation of expected correlated response of cane yield when components are selected individually, showed that selection for stalk weight gave the highest increase in correlation responses. This was followed by number of stalks per stool. [Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 102-108]