Decoding Trait Diversity in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.) using Genetic Diversity, Correlation and Path Analysis Approaches

Abstract

A field experiment on foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) was conducted during Kharif 2025 to evaluate genetic variability and identify yield-associated traits through correlation and path coefficient analyses. Forty-three diverse genotypes, including four check varieties, were evaluated in a Randomised Block Design with three replications. Fourteen quantitative traits related to growth, maturity, fodder yield, seed yield and protein content were assessed. The results indicated considerable variability among the genotypes for all traits. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were recorded for plant height, peduncle length, inflorescence length, dry fodder yield per plant and seed yield per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was observed for plant height, flag leaf width, number of tillers, peduncle length, inflorescence length, number of internodes per plant, 1000-seed weight, dry fodder yield per plant and seed yield per plant, suggesting the influence of additive gene action and the potential effectiveness of selection. Seed yield per plant showed a significant positive phenotypic association with flag leaf width. Phenotypic path analysis indicated that flag leaf width, days to maturity, green fodder yield per plant, peduncle length and inflorescence length exerted positive direct effects on seed yield per plant. These findings suggest that these traits may be useful in selection strategies for improving seed yield in foxtail millet.