Correlation and Path Analysis in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)

Abstract

This study, conducted at Horticultural Research Farm of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, India, over 2020-21 and 2021-22, aimed to examine coefficient of correlation and direct and indirect effects of yield contributing traits on economic yield among 30 diverse cowpea genotypes. The research employed a Randomized Block Design (R.B.D.) with three replications, assessing twenty-six quantitative traits. Genotypic correlations exceeded phenotypic correlations, underscoring genetic influence over environmental factors. Key findings included plant height's positive correlation with branches per plant and days to first flowering, while negatively correlating with nodes on main branches and pod diameter. Traits such as number of pods per plant and average pod weight showed strong positive correlations with pod yield, highlighting their importance in breeding programs. Path coefficient analysis revealed significant positive direct effects on pod yield per plant from traits including plant height, branches per plant, and average pod weight. Indirect effects through traits like days to first flowering and non-reducing sugars also contributed to pod yield. These insights into trait correlations and effects are crucial for developing superior cowpea genotypes with enhanced yield and agronomic traits. The findings emphasize the importance of genetic variability in breeding programs, enabling the selection of superior genotypes to improve cowpea productivity.