Abstract

                                Twenty seven blackgram varieties were studied for the extent of variability, heritability and genetic advance for seedling characters Phenotypic and genotypic correlation co- efficients among the characters and direct and indirect path effects of seedling characters on send yield and seed weight were estimated, Among the seedling charecters, fresh root weight exhibited the highest variability, heritability and genetic advance followed by dry shoot weight and rooting intensity. None of the seedling characters showed any significant correlations with seed yield or seed weight, Hov ever. path analysis indicated the positive direct role of dry shoot weight fresh root weight and shoot length on seed yield and weight, These three seedling characters may be used as early indicators in selection programmes in blackgram.

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