Genetic diversity and grain quality analysis of Yiyang Dahegu rice (YyDHG)

Abstract Yiyang Dahegu rice (YyDHG) is an important agricultural specialty of Yiyang County, Jiangxi Province, and it is also a significant component of the local cultural and economic development. In this experiment, 89 samples of Dahegu rice (DHG) were collected from Jiangxi Province, including 52 samples of YyDHG and 37 samples of DHG from other regions within Jiangxi Province (oDHG). Comprehensive analysis was conducted using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, field phenotypic observation, population structure analysis and quality analysis. The results of variety identification indicated that the 89 samples actually comprised 52 distinct varieties, including 19 varieties of YyDHG. Population analysis has revealed rich genetic diversity among DHG varieties within Jiangxi Province, yet no significant subpopulation differentiation was observed between YyDHG and oDHG. Quality experiments demonstrated that YyDHG exhibits significant differences in appearance quality from oDHG, but no notable differences in milling quality or cooked taste and flavour. This suggests that the competitiveness of YyDHG in the market may not entirely depend on its unique quality characteristics, but rather more on its cultural value and brand effect. This experiment conducted a comprehensive analysis of the variety characteristics, genetic diversity and quality traits of YyDHG. Not only does it provide a scientific basis for the breeding and germplasm resource conservation of YyDHG, but it also holds positive implications for promoting the development of its industry.