Analysis of genetic variability for yield and grain quality characters of two-line F1 rice (Oryza sativa L.) hybrids

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important staple food in Kenya but the country produces only 20% of the domestic demand of this crop. Over the last four decades, development of Fi hybrid rice has become an important strategy in meeting food rice requirement, especially in Asia. A two-line hybrid system that uses a thermosensitive male sterility (TGMS) has lately been widely utilized in many countries around the world on account of high realized heterosis. In rice, grain quality and associated attributes are as important as the total quantity, particularly in a country, like Kenya, where consumer preferences for rice is high. This study was designed to evaluate both the viability of TGMS based Fr hybrids potential found in selected Indica and Japonica crosses and to assess their value for cultivation and use in Kenya. In addition, the study attempted to assess the genetic variability pre~f in these materials for future cultivar development in this country.