Genetical Analysis of Gel Consistency in Rice (Oryza Satwa L.)

A 6x6 diallel set excluding reciprocals and involving contrasting parents in respect of gel consistency was made and the observations made in the parents, F 1′s and F 2′s were subjected to combining ability and heterosis analysis.

The study revealed predominance of additive type of gene action to govern the expression of the trait. Blue Belle, IR 30 and IR 20 appeared to be superior general combiners of which IR 20 was found to be consistent in its performance in the F1 and F2 generations. The s.c.a. effects seemed to depend on the level of gel consistency per se of the parents rather than their nature and level of g.c.a. effects. Careful selection of doner parents to breed varieties with desired level of gel consistency was emphasized, considering the fact that extreme levels of gel consistency make eating quality poor in certain amylose range.