Identification of the key morphological sweetpotato weevil resistance predictors in Ugandan sweetpotato genotypes using correlation and path‐coefficient analysis

Sweetpotato weevils (SPWs) can cause up to 100% yield losses in sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas). Nevertheless, there has been limited success breeding for SPW resistance globally. This is attributed partly difficulty screening because the complex and mediated by several indicators. Measuring all these indicators costly time consuming. To enhance efficiency selection resistance, need profile identify key Potentially, this will better enable breeders timely precisely select resistance. The objective of study was most efficient morphological against SPW. Thirty genotypes that varied comprising local collections, released varieties, lines were evaluated at three locations two seasons Uganda using an alpha lattice design. Data collected on storage root yield, stem damage, weevil such as vine vigor (VV), ground cover (GC), weight (VW), neck length (NL), latex content, cortex thickness (CT), dry matter content (DM). Genotype means measured traits significantly except CT. Negative relationships observed between damage GC, VW, CT, VV, NL, DM. However, path coefficient analysis showed NL (direct effect −0.43, p < 0.001) important indicator. Therefore, could be reliable predictor among clones, especially early stages.