PATH ANALYSIS IN OPIUM POppy (PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM L.)

Abstract

The genotypic coefficient of variation and heritability values in twenty strains of opium poppy were low for latex yield, morphine content and seed yield. These values were high for capsule breadth and capsule number. The partitioning of genotypic association of latex yield revealed maximum direct contribution from morphine percentage (negative), capsule breadth and leaf number. Direct effects of sizeable negative magnitude were also recorded for plant height, capsule number and seed yield. Aplant type with few capsules, which are broad in middle, dwarf stature, large leaf (the four upper most leaves) is suggested for increased latex yield.