Assessment of yield-associated traits in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) using correlation and path coefficient analysis

Abstract

Soybean is a major oil crop. Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is a globally significant legume known for its high protein and oil content. To increase yield and identify superior genotypes, the current study examined seven soybean genotypes and one check variety using a randomized block design with three replications during the Kharif season of 2024 at G.H. Raisoni Agricultural Experimental Field, School of Agriculture Science, G.H. Raisoni University, Saikheda, dis-Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh. Morphological and yield-related parameters were assessed, including seed yield per plant, plant height, branching traits, and pod characteristics etc. The correlation study found strong and very significant positive relationships between seed yield and variables such as plant height, number of primary and secondary branches, pods per plant, pod length, 100-seed weight, and grains per pod. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the number of major branches, pods per plant, 100-seed weight, grains per pod, and number of nodes per plant all had significant direct influence on yield, whereas plant height, days to maturity, and secondary branches contributed indirectly. These findings are consistent with prior research and emphasize the need of incorporating both direct and supporting qualities into breeding methods to increase soybean productivity.