Morphological characterization of Katarni rice (Oryza sativa L.) derived backcross population for yield and its contributing traits

Abstract

The aim of backcross breeding is the introgression of a certain trait of interest in a popular variety from a suitable donor variety. Morphological characterization of backcross derived line is a crucial step in backcross breeding programme. Present investigation was framed for the morphological characterization of advance backcross population, developed to introgress semi-dwarf and early maturing traits of Rajendra Sweta and BPT5204 into the background of tall, late maturing scented Katarni rice. The results indicated a significant decrease in the plant height and days of 50 % flowering in the backcross derived lines with respect to Katarni rice. Higher values of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all character indicated environmental influence in the development of all characters. High heritability with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for 1000 grain weight and plant height. Highly significant and positive correlation with yield per plant was exhibited by traits like 1000 grain weight and leaf aroma. Result of path coefficient analysis indicated direct positive effect of characters like L/B ratio, kernel length and 1000 grain weight on grain yield per plant.