Genetic Variability, Character Association, and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Micronutrients (Zinc and Iron) Traits in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Abstract

Evaluating correlation coefficients not only reveals the strength and direction of associations between yield and its contributing traits but also among the traits themselves, providing a multidimensional perspective on their interdependence. The study was conducted to determine the character associations and path Coefficient analysis among the grain yield and yield contributing characters and micro-nutrient content in 19 parental lines and sixty crosses along with 4 checks of pearl millet. Genetic parameters indicated high GCV, PCV, heritability, and genetic advance for traits such as productive tillers, zinc and iron content, plant height, harvest index, and grain yield, signifying strong genetic control and considerable scope for selection. Correlation and path coefficient analyses emphasized harvest index, fodder yield, plant height, panicle traits, and 1000-grain weight as major contributors to yield, while early flowering and maturity emerged as desirable traits under stress-prone conditions. Consequently, to effectively develop biofortified, high-yielding pearl millet cultivars, breeding programs should emphasize selection based on a superior harvest index, high fodder yield, increased productive tillers, early maturity, and elevated zinc content.