Assessment of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes for Yield and its Attributing Traits

Abstract

This study investigated the genetic variability and agronomic traits influencing wheat yield across multiple genotypes. Conducted during the 2021-2022 rabi season at the Research Farm of BRD PG College, Deoria, the experiment included 31 treatments and a standard check variety, HD-2967, arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant genetic variation among the genotypes for traits such as Days to 50% Flowering (DF), Days to Maturity (DM), Plant Height (PH), and Grain Yield per Plant (GYP). Genotypic correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between DF and DM, and negative correlations between DF, DM, and GYP, highlighting the complex trade-offs among traits. Traits like Test Weight (TW) and Biological Yield (BY) were positively correlated with GYP, indicating their potential as key selection criteria for breeding. Path coefficient analysis identified DF and Test Weight as having strong direct effects on GYP, while traits such as Plant Height and Number of Grains per Spike had negative impacts. These results provide valuable insights into the genetic and phenotypic relationships that can guide the development of superior wheat genotypes with improved yield potential.