Genetic variability correlation and path analysis in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) genotypes

To know the extent and pattern of genetic variability exist in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), a study were undertaken for at ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Ajmer (Rajasthan) India. Analysis of variance was worked out and it was recorded that most of trait understudy were found significant whereas test weight (g), seed yield per plot (kg) and essential oil were found non-significant. Results revealed that maximum PCV along with GCV were found for number of umbels per plant (24.65), seed yield per plot (21.74) and number of secondary branches (20.93). Very high heritability was observed for seed yield per plot (96.1) and number of umbels per plant (94.9). Likewise genetic advance was recorded highest for number of umbels per plant (24.25) and seed yield per plot (0.53). Seed yield was significantly and positively correlated with number of umbellets per umbel (0.329*), test weight (0.371*) and essential oil (0.371*) at genotypic and phenotypic level. Path coefficient analysis exhibit that number of umbels per plant (7.09) had highest positive direct effect on funnel seed yield