Abstract

                                Combining ability analysis was made in rice through line X tester analysis for major yield and yield components. Considerable degree of genetic variability was observed in the parents. The combining ability variances were significant and indicated the importance of both addi- tive and non-additive gene action in the expression of yield characters. Chithariyan was an outstanding general combiner for all the five characters under study. Poongar/IR-8 and Chitharivan/Kannagi were found to be the best cross combination with significant sca effects for important yield components. The crosses that involved Chithariyan as one of the parents were also found with high heterosis.

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