Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis inAshwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal]

  • Nilesh R. Joshi, M. A. Patel, K.N. Prajapati and A. D. Patel
Keywords: Ashwagandha, genetic variability, correlation, path analysis.

Abstract

Forty diverse genotypes of Ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.)Dunal] were evaluated for 12 quantitative characters. Higher magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was recorded for leaf width, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, root length, dry weight of root, withanoloide content and starch content. High heritability in conjuction with high genetic advance were observed for dry weight of root, root length, diameter of root at collar region, withanoloide content and starch content which indicated that selection could be effective for these traits. The estimates of correlation coefficient revealed that the genotypic correlations were higher than their corresponding phenotypic correlation for all characters. It was observed that root length, diameter of root at collar region, plant height, leaf length, leaf width, days to flower initiation and days to maturity showed significant positive association with dry weight of root at genotypic as well as phenotypic levels. Path analysis revealed that plant height, days to maturity, diameter of root at collar region and leaf width were major characters having positive direct effect and significant association with dry root yield per plant. Hence selection for these trait would be quite effective to improve dry root yield in Ashwagandha.
Published
31-12-2014
How to Cite
Nilesh R. Joshi, M. A. Patel, K.N. Prajapati and A. D. Patel
Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis inAshwagandha [Withania somnifera L. Dunal]. 2014. Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 5 4, 875-880. Retrieved from https://ejplantbreeding.org/index.php/EJPB/article/view/309
Issue
Vol 5 No 4 (2014)
Section
Research Note

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