Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis for Quality Seed Traits in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.)

Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path coefficient analysis was studied for some quality seed traits in 50 diverse genotypes of cowpea. The range of variation was observed from 68.00 to 99.33 per cent for standard germination; from 10.73 to 20.07 cm for root length; from 21.33 to 35.73 cm for shoot length; from 696.76 to 2078.67 mg for fresh weight; from 12.67 to 270.67 mg for dry weight; from 0.25 to 2.60 dS/m for electrical conductivity and from 2478.13 to 4643.07 for vigour index in various genotypes. High estimates of GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance were observed for seedling dry weight and electrical conductivity. Path analysis studies revealed the maximum direct effect of seedling vigour, seedling dry weight and standard germination on seed yield. Hence, these quality seed traits should also be given due weightage along with other important contributing traits of seed yield.