Correlation and path coefficient analysis for determining interrelationships among grain yield and related characters in Iranian genotypes of triticale

Abstract

To determine the most important traits influencing grain yield of Iranian genotypes of triticale, 7 lines along with one control genotype were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications in two locations of Research Station of Birjand (South Khorasan Province, Iran). Following a combined analysis of variance, multivariate statistical analyses such as simple correlation coefficients and path analysis were administered on combined means. The correlation coefficient analysis showed significant positive correlation of grain yield with date of heading, spike length and 1000-seeds weight. The maximum correlation was observed between grain yield and date of heading. The highest negative correlation was observed between spike length and date of heading. Path coefficient analyses revealed that date of heading, plant height, spike length, days to maturity and 1000-seeds weight had positive direct effect on grain yield. Highest positive direct effect on grain yield was related to date of heading. The highest indirect effect belonged to 1000-seeds weight via date of heading. The highest negative indirect effect on grain yield belonged to spike length via date of heading. According to results of present study the date of heading as the primary, 1000-seeds weight and spike length as the secondary characteristics can be taken into consideration as the important yield components and selection criteria for triticale.