Abstract

The genetic divergence study conducted with 50 rice genotypes comprising both Basmati and aromatic short grain types revealed significant differences among the genotypes for the yield, its components and grain quality characteristics. Based on the relative magnitude of D2 values, the genotypes were grouped into eight clusters by both Tocher’s and Euclidian methods of divergence study. Among all the clusters, cluster IV was the largest one with 12 genotypes, whereas cluster VIII had only one genotype (Pusa 1121). The cluster VIII was separated by higher genetic distance from cluster III and II followed by cluster V. Cluster VIII with only one genotype (Pusa 1121) exhibited the highest mean value for kernel length, kernel length after cooking and 1000- grain weight. Cluster VII possessed the highest mean value for kernel length, L/B ratio and kernel length after cooking due to inclusion of the most promising genotypes like Pusa Sugandh-3, Sugandhamathi and Basmati- 386, which are known for good quality traits. Cluster V containing genotypes, Gahansal, Chitti mutyalu and Godavari Isukalu exhibited good performance for most of the characters and registered more number of grains per panicle. Based on the inter cluster distances and other desirable attributes, crossing between Pusa 1121, JGL 15336, RNR 2465, Badsha bhog, NDR 6242, Gahansal and Chitti mutyalu is suggested for further improvement in grain quality and yield.

Keywords: Aromatic rice, Genetic divergence, D2 statistics, Cluster analysis, PC