Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack-6
Genetics of semi dwarfism was studied in a cross between a semi-dwarf mutant from NP. 130 and T.N. 1. It was concluded that the semi-dwarf character of S. 3 mutant was controlled by two recessive genes. Presence of modifiers was inferred. Erect leaf habit (flag leaf) and crinkling of the flag leaf are separately controlled by recessive genes.
Short stature and erect flag leaf per se have no built in advantage. High yields reported for the newly developed high yielding varieties are due to their non-lodging habit and greater fertilizer response especially to nitrogen.
