Trait interrelationships for pre-harvest sprouting tolerance in greengram: A correlation and path analysis approach

Abstract

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) in greengram (Vigna radiata L.) is a complex trait influenced by seed physiological properties and pod morphology, affecting yield and seed quality. This study employed correlation and path coefficient analyses to examine the relationships among seed and pod traits, water imbibition, and α-amylase activity contributing to PHS tolerance in 64 genotypes. Results showed that positive association of PHS with fresh seed germination, water imbibition by seeds and pods, α-amylase activity, indicating that rapid moisture uptake and early enzymatic activation enhance sprouting. Conversely, percentage of hard seed and epicuticular wax content exhibited negative correlations, highlighting their protective role in restricting water entry and delay in germination. Path analysis revealed pod surface area as the most influential trait directly promoting PHS, while pod length, diameter and pod wall thickness exerted strong indirect effects via surface area. Water imbibition, α-amylase activity and wax content also contributed indirectly, particularly in genotypes with lower hard seed percentages or favorable pod morphology. Traits exhibiting negative direct effects, such as higher percentage of hard seeds and stronger pod structure, suggest inherent physiological and morphological mechanisms that contribute to reduced susceptibility to pre-harvest sprouting. These findings demonstrate that both seed physiological characteristics and pod architecture jointly regulate PHS and provide practical selection criteria for breeding greengram genotypes with improved sprouting tolerance while maintaining high germination potential.