Genetic Path Analysis and Correlation Studies of Yield and Its Components of Some Bread Wheat Varieties

Abstract The research was applied in one of the farmers’ fields in Al-Khalidiyah / Anbar Governorate to determine the most appropriate traits to improve the yield of wheat grains during the two seasons 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. The experiment was carried out according to the randomized complete block design with three replicates, with aim of studying the path coefficient of the yield and its components for seven varieties of bread wheat (IPA 99, Buhooth 85, Iraq, Abu Ghraib 3, Tamoz 2, Sham 6, and Al-Rasheed). Most of the traits showed a significant positive correlation with grain yield. Also, the results of the analysis of the genetic path coefficient indicated that the indirect effect of the number of total tillers on the individual plant yield through the number of productive tillers, was 0.729 and 0.805 for the two seasons respectively, and very close to the direct effect of the number of productive tillers in the individual plant yield 0.887, 0.920. Also, the direct effect of the weight of 1000 grains on the yield of the plant was positive 0.514, 0.707, for the two seasons respectively, and its negative indirect effect of the number of productive tillers. Likewise, the direct effect was positive for the harvest index on individual plant yield and its indirect positive effect with the number of productive tillers. The study recommends focusing on breeding and improvement programs on the characteristics of the number of productive tillers, the weight of 1000 grains, and the harvest index is the best selection index to improve the cereal yield due to its significant correlation and its direct and high impact on the yield.