Correlation and regression approach in deciding early generation selection criteria for yield improvement in mungbean

The present study was aimed to decide the suitable early generation selection criteria for yield improvement in mungbean by using correlation and regression approach. The seed yield showed significant and positive correlation with number of pods/cluster, number of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod, 100-seed weight and biological yield in all the four F₂ populations. However, the seed yield of F₃ and F₄ populations showed significant and positive correlation with number of pods/plant in all the four crosses. Further, the coefficient of determination (R²) of simple regression analysis of seed yield of Fand Fprogenies on seven traits of Fplants revealed that the variance of seed yield of F₃ and F₄ progenies is largely determined by each of the seven traits of F₂ plants. Furthermore, stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that selection of F₂ plants based on number of pods/plant, 100-seed weight, seed yield and harvest index, is expected to give high yielding progenies in later generations.