Genetic Variability, Trait Relationship and Path Analysis for Green Fodder Yield and its Components in Cowpea (Vigna anguiculata) Under Rainfed Environment

Twenty five genotypes of cowpea were evaluated to study the genetic variability, trait relationship and path analysis between green fodder yield and its component traits. Highly significant mean square for all the traits were observed indicating adequate variability among the genotypes. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation coupled with high heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean were reported for plant height, stem weight, leaves weight, biological yield, dry matter yield and green fodder productivity indicating predominance of additive gene effects in controlling these characters. Green fodder yield was significantly and positively correlated with green fodder productivity, dry matter yield, biological yield, leaves weight and stem weight. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the stem weight had maximum and positive direct effect on green fodder yield at phenotypic and genotypic level followed by leaves weight and dry matter yield. Biological yield and dry matter per cent had negative direct effect on green fodder yield.