Interrelationship and divergence for germination, seedling growth and seed quality traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Interrelationship and divergence analyses among 7 genotypes of rice (Oryza sativa L.) viz., Swarna Mansoori, Sarju-52, Zuari Seeds, PR-116, Cottondora Sannalu, Nainital Sarayan and Bio Seeds were studied to understand seed health, germination, viability, seedling health, seedling vigor and seed quality traits. Healthy seeds (74.48%) were recorded for PR-116; it gave maximum germination (88%) and also yielded maximum number of healthy seedlings (83%). Variety PR-116 also gave minimum chaffy seed (0.38%), deformed seed (2.07%), discoloured seed (0.73%), insect damage seed (0.29%) and spotted seed (21.87%). The Zuari Seeds had very low germination (72%) and minimum normal seedling (61%). Cottondora Sannalu had maximum abnormal seedling (10%). Root length (7.05 cm), fresh weight (0.51 g), dry weight (0.24 g), test weight (23.95 g) and vigor index (1764.72) for PR-116 were higher than other genotypes. Correlation studies indicated that genotype PR-116 was superior to other genotypes for seed quality traits, seed health and seedling health. Clustering pattern revealed a judicious crossing between PR-116 and Swarna Mansoori may give superior combinations for seed quality traits and seedling health.