Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis for grain yield and yield components in rice genotypes

The present investigation was undertaken with 60 rice genotypes to study the variability and genetic parameters in addition to character associations and path effects for grain yield and yield component characters. The results revealed highly significant mean squares due to genotypes for all traits studied, indicating the existence of sufficient variation among the genotypes and therefore an ample scope for effective selection. High phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for total tillers per plant, ear bearing tillers per plant, filled and ill-filled grains per panicle in addition to grain yield per plant, indicating the effectiveness of direct selection for improvement of these traits. Days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, total tillers per plant, ear bearing tillers per plant and filled grains per panicle had recorded positive and significant association with grain yield per plant. The results on path analysis also revealed high and positive direct effects for ear bearing tillers per plant and filled grains per panicle and hence, these traits were identified as the most effective selection criteria for improvement of grain yield per plant in rice genotypes.