Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Rajan Prasad Mishra, Sandeep Kumar, Ashok Kumar and Tarkeshwar

Abstract:
In the realm of knowledge pertaining to the inherent nature and substantial magnitude of genetic associations within components of economic significance, a profound comprehension emerges. This enlightenment becomes instrumental in elevating the precision of selection processes, enabling the judicious amalgamation of desirable traits. The intricate discipline of path coefficient analysis transcends mere correlations, delving deep into the intricacies of both direct and indirect effects, thereby unraveling the intricate tapestry of contributions made by various yield attributes towards the ultimate goal of seed production. Within the global culinary landscape, maize assumes a pivotal role as one of the foremost cereal grains, standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of wheat and rice. Its significance lies in its dual role as a rich reservoir of both proteins, constituting approximately 6-13% of its composition, and carbohydrates, accounting for a substantial 70-87%. This unique nutritional profile underscores its importance in the dietary spectrum. Turning our gaze to the empirical realm, our investigative journey unfolds at the hallowed precincts of Namdeo Umaji Agri Tech India Private Limited, Pune, during the auspicious Kharif season of 2022. Here, our mission is to explore the vast expanse of variability inherent within the diverse genotypes of maize. Our repository of data extends to encompass nineteen polygenic traits, and the discerning eye is cast upon the average characteristics of selected flora. This meticulous scrutiny paves the way for comprehensive statistical analyses. At the genotypic level, the manifestation of grain yield per plant manifests a robust and positively significant kinship with cob length (0.416), closely followed by 100-seed weight (0.395), the count of tassel branches (0.369), kernels per row (0.364), protein content (0.337), leaves per plant (0.189), cob diameter (0.214), and the number of kernel rows per cob (0.179). In stark contrast, negative affiliations rear their head in association with leaf length (-0.266), leaf width (-0.455), days required for 50% silking (-0.273), and days to maturity (-0.163). Unearthing the crux of direct impact on grain yield per plant, the preeminent role is embraced by the number of tassel branches per plant (0.4713), followed in succession by the count of kernels per row (0.2966), number of kernel rows per cob (0.2285), 100-seed weight (0.1370), and cob diameter (0.1013). Furthermore, leaf width orchestrates a symphony of positive indirect influence on grain yield per plant, facilitated by the intermediaries of days required for 50% tassel flowering (0.1291) and the abundance of tassel branches (0.1581).