Appraisal of Magic Lines of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Genetic Variability, Character Association and Path Analysis Studies

An investigation was carried out to estimate genetic parameters, assess association and path coefficient analysis among growth, yield and yield attributes in Multiparent Advanced Generation Intercross (MAGIC) lines of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). A total of 100 MAGIC lines along with seven checks were evaluated in augmented design during summer 2022 at ZAHRS, KSNUAHS, Shivamogga. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the advanced lines for all the traits under study. The variability studies among the lines revealed a higher Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV), Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), heritability and Genetic Advance as Percent of Mean (GAM) for majority of traits. The correlation and path coefficient analysis revealed that traits tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant, panicle length, number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, test weight and length/breadth ratio were positively associated with yield. Selection of lines with higher filled grains per panicle would be effective for yield improvement program along with the higher percentages of productive tillers per plant, panicle length and spikelet fertility.