Genetic and morphological traits diversity in germplasm of Aman rice (Oryza sativa L.)

This study evaluated twenty-four Aman rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasm for morphological variability and genetic diversity at the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture. The focus was on ten quantitative and thirty-two qualitative traits using a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Significant differences were observed among all traits, with Dilbazal achieving the highest grain yield g plant−1 and Baishfuli the lowest. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was lower than the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all traits, indicating environmental influence. High PCV and GCV, along with significant heritability and genetic advance (GA), were noted for filled and unfilled grains panicle−1 and 1000-grain weight. Grain yield correlated positively with plant height, total and effective tillers, filled grains, unfilled grains, and thousand seed weight. Path coefficient analysis revealed direct positive effects of days to effective tillers, panicle length, and filled grains on grain yield. Cluster analysis grouped the germplasm into five distinct clusters, while qualitative assessments showed significant variation among genotypes, aiding in crop improvement efforts. Best performed genotypes were Vabmati, Nolkoshdhan, Dilbazal in cluster II for higher production and in cluster III Voirol, lalmota dhan-2 for highly scented germplasm.