Heritability estimates, correlation and path analysis studies for nut and kernel characters of Pecan (Carya illinoensis [Wang] K. Koch)

This study was undertaken to work out heritability estimates, correlation and path analysis on 34 pecan selections and three standard cultivars Western Schley, Mahan, and Burkett. High heritability estimates coupled with low genetic advance for most nut and kernel characters indicate higher influence of environment and presence of non-additive gene action suggesting that selection in pecan may not be effective. However, relatively higher values of genetic advance with high heritability recorded in kernel recovery, fat content and nut length indicates that the selection can be exercised on the basis of these characters. Significant correlations have been observed between most of the nut and kernel characters. The positive correlation towards nut yield with other desirable characters like nut weight, kernel weight, nut length and kernel length would be favourable to breeders for their simultaneous genetic improvement.