Microsatellite marker based diversity analysis for drought tolerance in some Bengal landraces of rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Twenty eight diverse rice genotypes collected from West Bengal, have been studied to assess genetic diversity using eight SSR markers linked with QTL of drought tolerance. All the SSR markers generated two reproducible alleles except RM-300 where three alleles were observed. The percentage of highest frequency allele among the used SSR markers ranging from 57.14% to 100%. PIC value washigher in case of RM-231, RM-278 and RM-490 therefore these markers could be used for diversity analysis. For most of the markers rare alleles were detected in Kalonunia, Satika, Shungakalma, Turkibalam, Laldhula and in Asnala. So, these genotypes are suitable for marker assisted breeding with the aim of increasing drought tolerance. Dendogram revealed 5 clusters at 0.65% similarity coefficient level. Polymorphism identified by 8 SSR markers and resultant diversity analysis of the Bengal landraces may serve in selecting parental combination as well as in marker assisted breeding programme.