Multivariate analysis of seed vigour parameters in late sown wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell)

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to determine variability, correlation, path coefficient and principal component analysis for seed vigour parameters viz. standard germination, seedling density, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index I and II, 1000 grain weight and grain yield plot-1. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a wide range of variation existing in the material studied. The highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variance recorded for seedling vigour index II (21.16 and 20.95, respectively) and, moderate values for seed density, seedling length, seedling dry weight and seedling vigour index I. The maximum value for heritability (broad sense) was found for seedling vigour index II (98.77%) whereas grain yield plot-1 had moderately high heritability (62.09%). Significant positive correlation were reported between standard germination and seedling density, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index I, seedling vigour index II and 1000 grain weight and seedling vigour index I estimated highest direct positive effect on grain yield plot-1, followed by seedling vigour index II, 1000 grain weight and seedling density. The principal component (PC1 and PC2) having Eigen value >1 (significant), accounted 64.70% of total variation. Maximum value was explained by component 1 with 50.5% of total variation.