Vol. 20 No. 1
Population structure, favourable alleles and grain quality traits of promising advanced breeding lines of lowland rice adaptable to acidic soils
Author(s): GOPINATH, M. RAI, W. TYAGI, A. DEBNATH AND K. L. BHUTI
Abstract: Advanced Breeding Lines (ABLs) developed from crosses between acidic soil adapted genotypes and elite varieties were evaluated phenotypically under phosphorus deficient acidic lowland soil for sixteen grain quality traits. The rationale was to identify ABLs adapted to various biotic and abiotic stresses with desired grain quality, which can be used in breeding pipeline to develop promising lines. Genetic relationship was ascertained using genome-wide SSRs and SNPs along with trait linked markers for blast resistance (Pi(20)t, Pi54 and Pita), chalkiness (Chalk5), etc. Amount of iron and zinc in unpolished dehulled grains were estimated using energy dispersive X- ray fluorescence spectrophotometer. Amylose content ranged from 18% to 27% among the breeding lines, while the protein content ranged from 5.5% to 11%. We were able to identify superior ABLs on the basis of higher yield and presence of favourable alleles for key traits including grain quality. Four diverse breeding line, (CAUS 103, CAUS 104, CAUS 105 and CAUS 107) with lesser disease score, higher yield and grain quality traits suitable to Northeast India consumer preference identified in the current study could be nominated for multi-locational trials or can be used as parents in further breeding programmes. The study also provides a broad framework of breeding strategy, prioritizing traits and parental selection for rice breeding in acidic region.