Character Association and Path Analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for cold tolerance

Genotypic and phenotypic correlation among sixteen component characters was studied in 52 genotypes of Rice. Association analysis of parents revealed that Days to 50% flowering, plant height, seedling maturity after transplanting, number of productive tillers, Panicle excertion had high significant positive correlation with cold tolerance. Number of seeds/head, 100 seed weight, head diameter and per cent seed filling also had significant positive inter-correlation among themselves. Seedling growth (cm), panicle length, Days to 50% flowering, early seedling vigor and seed vigor influenced indirectly. Hence, this trait should be given priority in rice improvement programme for cold tolerance.