Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Correlation, and Phenotypic Path Coefficients in Hybrids of Kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus L.) Cultivated for High Fibre Yield

Kenaf is an economically important fiber crop globally for multipurpose industrial uses such as paper making, interior car components and building boards. Correlation and path coefficient analysis help breeders create breeding procedures that maximize yield through selection by assisting in the understanding of trait interactions. To develop selection criteria for high fibre yield, this research examined the direct and indirect effects of yield and yield-related traits among 36 kenaf hybrids. The pooled analysis of variance over two seasons showed highly significant differences among genotypes and genotype-by-season interaction for all traits except for stem top diameter and plant height. The fibre weight substantially correlated with seven traits at both the phenotypic and genotypic levels. Hence, selection based on these traits will effectively increase kenaf fibre yield. The path coefficient analysis revealed the maximum contribution of core diameter to fibre yield followed by fresh stem weight without leaves and pod. The first five principal component analyses (PCA) accounted for 91.8% variation between genotypes based on a correlation matrix of all the quantitative traits. For the development of kenaf varieties with acceptable yield, effective selection can be based on stem base diameter, stem middle diameter, core diameter, nodes number, stick weight, fresh stem weight with leaves and pod, and fresh stem weight without leaves and pod.