Evaluation of genetic variation among fourteen rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties (Landraces) of North Bengal using morphological traits

Abstract

The Northem region (North Bengal) of West Bengal possesses a rich genctic diversity of rice (Oryza sativa L).This region is known for growing one important rice variety Tulaipanji with GI number in the district of North Dinajpur and many other varieties of local landraces with tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. A considerable range of diversity and variation exists among the genetic resources of rice landraces of North Bengal. Prominent fourteen (14) landraces such as Sadanunia, Kalonunia, Dhepi, Banni, Dudkalam, Malsira, Lalpanati, Bhadoi, Ashami, and Gobindabhog, Enda, Chenga, Katharibhog, Tulaipanji are known for their special quality attributes were collected from the different districts of North Bengal. Genetic variation among these landraces was characterized by means of morphological traits such as seed sizes, shape, volume, colour, awn character, surface texture with husk (Microscopic observation) and pericurp colour. The Karl Pearson's simple matching coefficient was used to calculate the genetic diversity among the varieties. Similarity coefficient was ranged from 0.94 to 0.64 with an average of 0.79 among the 14 varieties. Clusier analysis based on genetic similarity of these varieties gave rise to three distinct groups The results suggested that the level of genetic diversity within this group of rice varieties of North Bengal was suficient for brecding programs and can be used to establish genetic relationships among them on the basis of morphological traits.