Trait Association and Genetic Variability Study in Rice MAGIC Lines for Yield Related Traits

The study was aimed to assess genetic variability and associations between grain yield and morphological traits in 50 multi-parent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) lines generated by single seed descent utilizing eight diverse parents (to impart tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses) were utilized in the study along with eight checks at Zonal agricultural and horticultural research station, Navile, Shivamogga during kharif 2022. Improvement in grain yield, a quantitative trait is one of the key objective of plant breeders which depends upon the magnitude of genetic variability existing in the genetic material utilized in the breeding programme. The analysis of variance revealed the presence of significant differences were found among lines for all traits. Moderate to high genotypic and phenotypic variation, heritability and genetic advance were recorded for plant height, tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, test weight and grain yield. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between grain yield and tillers per plant, panicle length, filled grains per panicle, panicle fertility and test weight. These findings emphasize the importance of indirect selection for these traits to improve grain yield in rice. The results suggest that breeders can utilize these traits as selection criteria to enhance grain yield, ultimately contributing to rice yield improvement programs. Our study provides valuable insights for rice breeders to develop high-yielding rice varieties with improved tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses.