Factor Analysis of Fodder Yield Components in Lasiurus Sindicus Henr

Abstract

The sources of common variation of fodder yield and seven of its components in Lasiurus sindicus were analysed using Centroid method of factor analysis. Three factors together accounted for most of the inter-correlations. Tiller number. branch number, green fodder yield and dry matter yield could be grouped as productivity factor; culm thickness, leaf breadth and leaf length as growth factor; plant height, leaf-stem ratio and leaf breadth as forage quality factor. The constitution of factors was same in the two environments. The loadings on quality factors were relatively unstable whereas the loadings on productivity and growth factors were stable. It is found that growth and productivity factors play a pivotal role towards diversity in the L. sindicus. Criterion of selection for breeding varieties rich in yield and quality of fodder is discussed.