Deciphering the genetic variability traits in a set of advanced breeding lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.) for aluminium tolerance and phosphorus uptake efficiency under hydroponic condition

Yield performance evaluation was carried out for 30 genotypes rice, and harvested seeds were subjected to analysis under hydroponic conditions using Hoagland’s solution. Twelve genotypes were categorized as sensitive, thirteen as moderately sensitive and five as insensitive to Al stress based on scoring of staining pattern. Maximum root regrowth was found in NEH-7 followed by NEH-6 and NEH-12, and these genotypes also showed light staining. A significant positive correlation was observed between root regrowth (RR) in Al treated acidic solution and yield per hectare (YPH) in acidic field conditions. In short-term growth response study under Al treated acidic solution with normal phosphorus, TRL (Total Root Length), TRSA (Total Root Surface Area), TRV (Total Root Volume) were positively and significantly correlated with root regrowth (RR) and yield per hectare (YPH). Highest Phosphorus Uptake Efficiency (PUpE) was recorded in M-8, NEH-2 and NEH-1 under hydroponic conditions. A total of seven clusters were obtained based on observed traits under short term study. Cluster I had eighteen genotypes, Cluster II had three genotypes, Cluster III had two genotypes, Cluster IV had four genotypes, however, genotypes NEH-17, M-8 and NEH-10 belonged to separate clusters, i.e., Cluster V, VI and VII respectively, with the maximum intercluster distance between Cluster II and Cluster III. Out of all the seven characters TRL, TRSA, TRV can be taken as the most compelling characters for selecting genotypes for high PUpE under Al toxicity stress at the seedling level. Genotypes namely NEH-1, NEH-3, NEH-4 and NEH-10 can be considered better aluminum toxicity tolerant genotypes, which can be effectively utilized to give good yield in Al stress condition in acidic soil and as parent for hybridization purpose as well.