Character Association and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield-contributing Traits in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Abstract

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), a self-pollinated annual crop with 2n = 30 chromosomes, is typically grown in the Rabi season and is mainly valued for its oil and flax fiber because of its economic importance. Yield is a complex trait governed by multiple genes, and its performance is significantly affected by environmental factors. Because of its complex polygenic nature, direct selection for yield may not always lead to significant genetic improvement unless the genetic basis of its component traits is considered. Understanding the relationship between yield and its contributing traits is crucial as it enhances selection efficiency by providing insights into these relationships. Path coefficient analysis is a method that breaks down the relationship between traits and yield into direct and indirect effects. While simple correlation shows how traits are related, path analysis explains how much each trait directly or indirectly affects yield. This analysis helps breeders identify the traits that most impact yield and guides them in selecting the best traits for breeding programs. The current study focused on examining the relationship between seed yield and its contributing traits in linseed. A total of 36 genotypes were assessed at the Oilseeds Research Station Latur, College of Agriculture, Latur, during the Rabi season of 2024-2025, utilizing a randomized block design with two replications. The trial was sown on November 23, 2024, with a spacing of 30 × 5 cm. The analysis revealed that traits such as 1000-seed weight, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, number of branches per plant, harvest index, and plant height exhibited highly significant and positive correlations with seed yield per plant. Furthermore, path coefficient analysis indicated that the number of capsules per plant had the highest positive direct effect on seed yield, followed by 1000-seed weight, harvest index, number of branches per plant, plant height, days to maturity, and oil content.