Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis for ‘Yield Contributing’ Traits in Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.)

Character association studies will help to assess the relationship among the yield and its components for enhancing the usefulness of the selection. In view of this, the present research work was carried out to assess the correlation coefficient and path analysis among twenty five maize genotypes using eleven quantitative parameters. Correlation studies indicated that plant height (cm), ear height (cm), ear length (cm), ear girth (cm), number of kernel rows per ear, number of kernels per row showed significant positive association with grain yield (Kg/ha) as well as among themselves at phenotypic and genotypic level. Hence, selection for any one of these characters would bring in simultaneous improvement of other characters and also finally improvement in grain yield (kg/ha). Path coefficient analysis revealed that the highest positive direct effects on grain yield was exhibited by days to 75% tasseling, ear length, days to 75% brown husk, ear height and ear girth. Therefore, present investigation could be helpful in a reliable selection of parental lines based on the above given traits as well as for the development of high yielding verities for further breeding programs.