Path coefficient analysis of some head and seed characteristics in sunflower

Abstract

The 1000-seed mass is one of the three most important yield components in sunflower. Using correlation analysis, we studied the interrelationship of several yield components (1000-seed mass, test weight, head diameter, head dry matter mass, percentage seed set, oil content and protein content) in eight sunflower inbred lines and 15 F1 hybrids (line x tester). Path coefficient analysis was used to separate direct and indirect effects of the traits on 1000-seed mass. Highly significant positive correlations were found between 1000-seed mass and head diameter (0.7665) and percentage seed set (0.6026). Highly significant and significant negative correlations were observed between 1000-seed mass and protein content (-0.7065) and 1000-seed mass and test weight (-0.4546), respectively. Oil content had a highly significant positive direct effect on 1000-seed mass, while protein content and test weight had a highly significant negative direct effect on this trait. The coefficient of determination was 0.8302 and the residual factor in path analysis 0.4120.