Morphological Characterization of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces of the Hilly Zone of Karnataka

Rice landraces of hilly zone of Karnataka were characterized for distinctness and uniformity according to DUS test guidelines of PPV & FR authority. Grain characters viz., hulled and non-hulled, grain length and width exhibited distinctness among the genotypes. The grain yield of Bangaarugandu, Bagyajyothi, Ratnachudi, Balaji and Kempudoddi landraces was more than check (Jyothi). Rice landraces of hilly zone of karnataka evaluated in this study were found to be distinct and uniform with respect to DUS traits and yield characters and hence may be considered for crop improvement programme for various agronomic and quality traits.