Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]

Correlation and path analysis was carried out using 198 germplasm lines of soybean for 8 component characters including seed yield. Pods per plant, biological yield per plant, branches per plant, harvest index, 100-seed weight and plant height had positive and significant correlation with seed yield both at genotypic and phenotypic levels. Path analysis showed positive and high direct effect of biological yield per plant and harvest index and indirect effect of other component characters through these characters towards seed yield per plant. Hence, these traits should be given more emphasis while selecting germplasm for yield improvement in soybean.