Magnitude and direction of association for yield and yield attributes in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Correlation analysis among kernel yield and its component characters was carried out to identify the selection indices in BC₁F₁ populations of two crosses viz., CO 7 × GPBD 4 and CO 7 × COG 0437. Kernel yield per plant and pod yield per plant expressed significant and positive correlation with plant height, number of primary branches, number of pods per plant, 100-pod weight and shell weight, in both crosses. Hence these characters may be considered as selection indices. These characters may be given due emphasis in breeding for high kernel yield in groundnut. The association of kernel yield per plant with 100-kernel weight, sound mature kernel, late leaf spot score and rust score varies with the crosses. Hence these characters may also be considered as selection indices with caution.