Analysis of genetic variability and correlations between yield and its contributing traits in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) for drought resistance

Abstract

The experimental setup included 55 diverse genotypes and 2 check varieties, arranged in a randomized block design with four replications in both rainfed and irrigated conditions.Significant variations were found across all traits analyzed.The highest genetic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were observed for peduncle length, followed by the number of grains per ear and grain yield per plant in both environments.In the irrigated environment, broad sense heritability estimates were highest for the number of grains per ear, plant height, peduncle length, and flag leaf length.Conversely, in the rainfed environment, the highest heritability values were for peduncle length, plant height, flag leaf length, and 1000 grain weight.Grain yield per plant showed a significant positive correlation with plant height, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, and the number of grains per ear.Path coefficient analysis revealed a strong direct positive effect from the number of grains per ear, 1000 grain weight, flag leaf width, and the number of effective tillers per plant.