Assessment of Genetic Variability and Character Association and Path-Coefficient Analysis in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Timely Sown Irrigated Condition

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell.), a key staple crop globally, contributes significantly to food security and nutrition by providing 20% of the world’s resources. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability, heritability, and path analysis of 105 wheat genotypes, including four checks, under timely sown irrigated conditions in Uttar Pradesh, India during the rabi season 2022-23. The experiment was conducted using an Augmented Block Design across seven blocks, assessing traits such as days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, tillers per plant, spike length, spikelets per spike, peduncle length, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, biological yield, harvest index, and grain yield per plant. The results revealed significant variation among genotypes for all traits. High heritability was observed for traits such as number of grains per spike (99.82%) and grain yield per plant (99.35%). Genetic advance was notably high for grain yield per plant (65.49%) and biological yield (61.52%). The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) generally exceeded the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), indicating environmental influence on trait expression. Grain yield per plant showed strong positive correlations with biological yield, grains per spike, and other yield-related traits. Path coefficient analysis indicated that biological yield had the highest direct effect on grain yield. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic diversity and variability of wheat genotypes, essential for breeding programs aiming to improve yield and adaptability.