Heritability estimates, correlation and path coefficient analysis for fruit yield in walnut (Juglans regia L.)

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the inherent relationship for fruit yield with various physiological and development traits using heritability estimates, correlation and path coefficient analysis under mid-hill conditions of north-western Himalayas of India. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain was found for the character tree volume, trunk cross sectional area and fruit yield. Whereas, high heritability coupled with moderate genetic gain was obtained for the characters viz., trunk girth, nut weight and kernel weight. A highly significant and positive phenotypic and genotypic correlation of yield were found with flower density, fruit set, trunk girth, trunk cross sectional area and tree spread. Maximum positive direct effect cited towards yield were contributed by flower density, trunk girth, tree height, shoot length, duration of male flowering, nut weight, fruit set, shell thickness, kernel percentage and nut width. The study concluded that the traits trunk cross sectional area, trunk girth and flower density could serve as selection indices for higher yield with good nut and kernel quality cultivars in walnut.