Combining ability and gene action for yield and quality traits in Ahu rices of Assam

Abstract

The traditional Ahu rice varieties of Assam, which are grown during March/April to June/July, are characterized by early maturity and tolerance to varying levels of moisture stress and known for the presence of unique diversity [1]. Attempt for improvement as well as genetic studies in them, however, are limited. It is, therefore, necessary to study the genetic architecture of this group of rice varieties with respect to various yield and quality attributes. Information on combining ability and gene action, in this regard, would provide guidelines for selection of parents from Ahu rice germplasm and also to choose appropriate breeding procedure for their improvement. With this consideration the present investigation was undertaken to study the gene action and combining ability in the Ahu group of rice varieties.