Genetic variability, inter-relationship and path analysis in onion

Abstract

Genetic variability, interrelationship and path coefficients were studied in onion involving 12 varieties. Moderate to high estimates of heritability, GCV and genetic gain were recorded for neck thickness, weight of bulb and number of leaves/plant which could be improved by simple selection. The phenotypic and genotypic association of bulb yield was significantly positive with plant height, number of leaves/plant, diameter and weight of bulb but significantly negative with neck thickness. Path analysis showed that number of leaves/plant had high positive direct effect on yield. Other characters also exerted high positive indirect effect through this trait on yield suggesting to give emphasis on such trait independently or in combination with thin neck trait while imposing selection for amenability in bulb yield of onion.