Character association and path coefficient studies in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Genetic parameters, correlation coefficients among yield and yield components, direct and indirect effect of yield components on yield were studied in one hundred and one rice genotypes for seven quantitative traits. The analysis of variance revealed that there were highly significant differences for all the characters among the genotypes. The estimate of GCV and PCV was found to be highest for number of filled grains per panicle followed by grain yield per plant and ear bearing tillers. The broad sense heritability was highest for plant height (99.6%) followed by grain yield per plant (98.8%) and days to flowering (98.2). The estimate of genetic advance was found to be highest for number of filled grains per panicle and grain yield per plant. The number of filled grains per panicle and grain yield per plant had high heritability as well as high genetic advance. A significant positive association of grain yield with number of panicles and test weight was observed in character association studies. Path coefficient analysis revealed that plant height, ear bearing tillers, panicle length, number of filled grains per panicle and test weight (g) exhibited positive direct effect on yield. Among these characters, ear bearing tillers and test weight possessed both positive association and high direct effects. Hence, selection for these character could bring improvement in yield and yield components.