Abstract:
A study on the parameters of variability, correlation and path coefficient were undertaken in forty eight horsegram varieties. The study was conducted at the Department of Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during Rabi 1989.
The varieties showed significant differences in all the characters studied. Genotypic coefficient of variation was maximum for days to flowering and minimum for length of pod. High heritability estimates were observed for hundred seed weight and days to flowering. Genetic gain was maximum for days to flowering. Hundred seed weight and days to flowering recorded high heritability and high genetic gain indicating the presence of additive gene action. At the genotypic level seed yield showed high positive correlation with harvest index and number of pods per plant. Path coefficient analysis projected number of pods per plant, length of pod and number of branches as the traits exerting high positive direct effect on seed yield.
The study indicated that the model for plant selection in horsegram should be one with more number of branches, long pods and more number of pods per plant.
The varieties P. Palayam, CODB-1, Calicut local, PLS-6056 and No.447 were found to fit in this model.
