Correlations and path analysis under multicollinearity in recombinant lines of chili pepper (<i>Capsicum annuum</i> L.)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the genotypic correlations and their consequences in direct and indirect effects by path analysis of agronomic trait and the total weight of fruits (TWF) in recombinant lines of chili pepper. Eight agronomic traits were evaluated under field conditions in 21 genotypes of Capsicum annuum L. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and estimated the genotypic, phenotypic and environmental correlations. Path analysis was performed by the method proposed by Wright and the effect of multicollinearity was eliminated to discard variables and using the constant k by multiplying the diagonal axis of X’X matrix (analysis crest). The fruit length had higher direct and indirect effects on TWF in both tests. The use of the constant K provided a better estimation of the effects on the TWF.