Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis studies in Jute (Corchorus olitorius) germplasm lines

Abstract

Fifty two accessions of tossa jute germplasm were evaluated for variability. The highest heritability (h2), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and percent genetic advance over mean were observed for the traits green biomass and fibre weight per plant indicated preponderance of additive gene action. Green biomass weight per plant found to be highest (0.85) genotypic correlation with fibre yield per plant. The traits plant height, base diameter, green biomass weight, days to 50% flowering and fibre weight were found associated with each other. Path coefficient analysis showed that green biomass weight has direct effect on fibre yield per plant. The traits plant height, basal diameter and days to 50% flowering had also indirect effect via green biomass yield on fibre yield per plant. Thus, the result of this investigation suggested that green biomass weight, plant height, basal diameter and days to 50% flowering would be the selection parameters to produce jute varieties with acceptable yield.