Genetic Variability, Correlation Coefficient and Path Analysis of Seed and its Component Traits in Forage Maize (Zea mays L.)

Genetic variability, character association and path analysis for seed yield and its contributing traits were worked out in 100 forage maize accessions along with a control variety, namely, African Tall. These materials were collected from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The results indicated that phenotypic coefficients of variation, in general, were relatively higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for seed yield and contributing traits. The number of kernels per row, shank diameter, seed yield per plant and cob length showed more variation than the other characters. Heritability in conjunction with genetic advance showed days to maturity, seed yield per plant and plant height to be the most important character for improvement through selection. Seed yield per plant, was found to be significantly and positively associated with test weight, number of kernels per row, kernel width, kernel length, shank diameter and cob length. The path coefficient analysis revealed that characters like test weight, number of kernels per row and shank diameter had positive direct effect on seed yield. From the above findings it may be concluded that an ideal plant type in forage maize for seed yield could be described as one which is characterized by more number of kernels per row, test weight and shank diameter. The selection based on these characters might help in improving seed yield in forage maize both directly and indirectly.