Trait Association and Path Analysis for Yield Related Traits in Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.)

Correlation and path coefficient analysis were attempted in M₃ generation of Bambara groundnut genotype SB-42 to determine the association among characters and to assess the direct and indirect contribution of nine quantitative characters on seed yield. M₃ generation was raised during kharif season of the year 2011–2012. The results indicated that the seed yield was strongly correlated with the plant height, branches per plant, plant spread, pod per plant, pod yield and plant dry weight. Results of path analysis indicated that except for plant height and number ofbranches per plant all other characters had positive direct effect on seed yield. Pod yield had highest indirect effect on seed yield. Those characters which showed significant positive correlation and exerted direct positive effect on the yield like pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and numbersof pods plant could be selected for improvement in yield.