Assessment of Genetic Variability and Correlation for Floral, Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract

Developing high yielding hybrid rice varieties is much needed to ensure food security to meet the requirement of increasing population across the world. Cytoplasmic male genetic sterility system is a valuable technology for exploitation of heterosis and production of high yielding hybrid rice with better grain quality. A total of forty rice genotypes comprising 20 maintainer and 20 restorer lines were evaluated to study the variability and correlation between floral, yield and yield contributing traits. High significant variation was observed among the genotypes for all the studied traits. Number of grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight and duration of spikelet opening recorded high GCV values and high heritability coupled with high genetic advance which indicated the broad genetic base, less environmental influence and these traits are under control of additive gene action. The correlation analysis among the traits were further studied. The duration of spikelet opening, plant height, number of productive tillers, stigma breadth expressed positive significant association along with positive direct effect on grain yield per plant indicated that selection for these traits will be effective in varietal development programme as well as exploring the gene pool.