Association Pattern Between Yield and Yield Components in M₃ Generation of PTB33 in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Yield is a complex character, it is a function of several component characters and their interaction, and the knowledge on association of several characters with yield and among themselves will be very essential for planning a successful breeding programme. However, the grain yield mostly depends on the net result of yield contributing traits. The efficiency of selection mainly depends on the direction and magnitude of association between yield and its components. Trait association of the yield attributing traits revealed significantly positive association of productive tillers, panicle length, flag leaf length, seedling height and leaf width. Hence, selection for these traits can improve yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that productive tillers and seedling height exhibited positive direct effect on yield. Among these characters, productive tillers possessed both positive association and high direct effects. Hence, selection for this character could bring improvement in yield and yield components.