Analysis of correlation and path coefficient in F1 and F2 generations of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Wheat plays a crucial role in global food security, particularly in India, where it is the second most cultivated cereal. Enhancing wheat productivity requires a thorough understanding of the relationships among yield-contributing traits. This study assessed 67 wheat genotypes (27 F1s, 27 F2s, 9 lines, 3 testers, and 1 check) developed using a Line × Tester mating design. The experiment, conducted at BRD PG College, Deoria, followed a randomized block design with three replications, evaluating 14 agronomic traits. Correlation and path coefficient analyses were performed at genotypic and phenotypic levels. The results revealed significant associations between grain yield per plant (GYPP) and traits like biological yield per plant (BYPP), harvest index (HI), test weight (TW), and grains per spike (GPS). Path analysis confirmed that days to 50% flowering, plant height, and productive tillers per plant exerted notable direct and indirect effects on yield. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at improving wheat yield.