Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis for Seed Yield and its Component Traits in Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.)

Abstract

Twenty seven promising genotypes of berseem were evaluated for seed yield and its component traits. The range of variation was from 3.60 to 5.97 for tillers/plant: 13.60 to 24.7 for number of heads/plant and 0.85 to 2.49 g for seed yield/plant. The estimates of GeV and pev was maximum for seed yield and primary branches/plant, whereas, low estimates were observed for head length and head breadth. High estimates of heritability coupled with high genetic gain were observed for seed yield/plant and primary branches/plant. Tillers/plant, primary branches/plant, number of heads/plant and seeds/head showed significant and positive association with seed yield/ plant. However, based on path coefficient analysis, number of seeds/head and tillers/plant were found to be the best characters for bringing desired improvement in seed yield/plant in berseem.