Genetic variability, correlation and path co-efficient analysis for grain yield in rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes

Population of 211 genotypes of Azucena x HBC19 F₅ rice was assessed to compute variability, correlation and path coefficient. Productive tillers per plant exhibited highest GCV and PCV estimates followed by kernel breadth, yield/plant and 1000 grain weight indicating that greater amount of variability prevailed for these traits with in F₅ population. Productive tillers per plant and yield per plant had high estimates for both heritability and genetic advance. Kernel length showed lowest estimates both for heritability and genetic advance. The grain yield exhibited positive association with plant height, productive tillers per plant, 1000-grain weight and length/breadth ratio The path analysis revealed highest positive direct effect of productive tillers on yield.