Genetic Diversity and Performance of Masuli and its Substitute Rice Cultivars

Abstract

Masuli has been the most popular among all rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars in Nepal over a number of years now. Since it is highly susceptible to blast, a replacement of Masuli is being long sought. In certain parts of Nepal, the rice farmers have tried to replace Masuli with other cultivars. On the other hand, the rice breeders are attempting to breed for a blast resistant Masuli. This study was conducted to compare Masuli with other rice cultivars adopted to replace it as well as with Masuli-derived breeding lines that are blast resistant, and determine genetic diversity among them using molecular technique. Twelve rice genotypes (Masuli, five other commercial cultivars, five Masuli-derived breeding lines, and one another breeding line) were evaluated under field conditions at Rampur, Nepal during 1998 and 1999 main-season rice in replicated plots. A number of characters were evaluated. All 11 genotypes produced higher grain yield than Masuli. Masuli-derived breeding lines possessing blast resistance showed 14 to 38% higher grain yield, 11 to 21 fewer days to heading, and potential of replacing Masuli. Molecular analysis showed similarity among Masuli and Masuli-derived breeding lines but diversity among the 12 genotypes

J. Inst. Agric. Anim. Sci. 2003 24:5-12