Genetic Associations and Path-coefficient Analysis of the Economic Traits in the Chili (Capsicum annuum L.)

Genetic associations and path-coefficient analysis was performed for the 15 economic traits affecting capsaicin content (%)in 38 elite genetic stocks/accessions of chili (Capsicum annuum). The capsaicin content was significantly associated withnumber of primary branches per plant and days to first flowering followed by weak positive association with days to fruitinitiation and negative association with fruit weight dry and fruit weight fresh . In path-coefficient analysis, the number ofprimary branches per plant was found to be the premium direct contributor to the capsaicin content followed by fruit length .Fruit diameter exhibited the third highest direct effects. The fruit surface area added to the capsaicin content indirectly viafruit length and fruit weight. Primary branches per plant and days to first flowering emerged as a reliable component inselection criterion in breeding high capsaicin content yielding chili (Capsicum annuum).