Studies on correlation and path analysis in elite genotypes of Desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.)

Correlation and path coefficients were studied in elite genotypes of desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) taking twenty two phenotypically diverse genotypes. Seed cotton yield was positively and significantly associated with days to 50% flowering, lint yield planr¹, seed index and oil content at both phenotypic and genotypic levels whereas it had negative and significant correlation with uniformity ratio at genotypic level only. Path coefficient analysis indicated that lint index had highest positive direct effect followed by lint yield planr\ days to 50% flowering, earliness index, average boll weight, oil content, and micronaire value. Ginning outturn had positive indirect effect with plant height, days to 50% boll bursting, number of sympodia, harvest index and fibre strength. Considering the association and path analysis, days to 50% flowering, lint yield planr¹, seed index, number of sympodia and average boll weight had a great influence on seed cotton yield planr¹