Correlation and path analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) for seed and seed vigour traits

An experiment comprising thirty-five diverse genotypes of rice maintained at division of plant breeding and genetics of MRCFC, SKUAST-K, Khudwani was carried out to assess the nature and magnitude of association among different seed and seed vigour traits. Data on twelve seed and seedling characters was recorded and analysed statistically for correlation and path analysis. Association studies revealed that seedling length (mm), shoot length (mm), germination (%), root length (mm), seed breadth (mm) and 1000 seed weight (g) showed high and significant positive association with seed vigour index at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Seedling length (mm) and germination (%) showed highest direct positive effect on seed vigour index at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Hence, these traits should be given priority in rice improvement programme and keeping in mind the importance of seed.