Assessment of correlation and path analysis of hybrid rice parental lines in a multi-environment study (Oryza sativa L.)

Correlation and path analysis are useful selection aids for the plant breeder to understand the complex interactions among various factors that influence crop growth and yield. The data were collected from a diverse set of 150 genotypes, consisting of 129 restorers, 15 maintainers and 6 checks in three different environments (Kharif 2021@ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad, Kharif, 2021@ Agricultural College, Tirupati and Rabi 21-22@ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad) on 10 different component traits. The analysis included three data sets along with their pooled values. All of the component traits demonstrated a positive correlation with single plant yield, either significant or non-significantly in environment wise analysis as well as in the pooled analysis. The analysis revealed that certain traits, namely plant height, total number of tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant and spikelet fertility showed a significant positive correlation with single plant yield while the rest of the traits exhibited a positive non-significant correlation. Based on the results, plant height, biomass, and harvest index play a key role in determining final yield, as they have a strong positive correlation with single plant yield and exert positive direct effects on it. Therefore, prioritizing these traits during selection could be an effective approach for the indirect selection of increased grain yield.