Correlation and Path Analysis of Agro-Morphometric Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Correlation and path coefficient among eleven agro-morphometric traits of forty maize inbred lines (14 QPM lines and 26 non- QPM lines) grown during kharif 2011 were studied. Correlation analysis revealed that grain yield exhibited significant positive association with 100-seed weight implying that improvement in grain yield can be obtained by improving the latter. Further, path coefficient analysis partitioned the correlation into direct and indirect effects. Path analysis revealed highest positive direct effect of days to 50% silking on grain yield, followed by cob girth and 100-seed weight; hence selection based on these characters would be more rewarding.