Exploration and Genepool Sampling of Landrace Diversity in Oryza from Chhotanagpur Region

Abstract

Rich genetic diversity in Oryza landraces occur in Indian gene centre. Chhotanagpur plateau and adjoining· Orissa State possesses amazing variability in its landrace forms. Several wild species also continue to perpetuate in this region. Exploration and germplasm collection work was undertaken in Chhotanagpur region of Bihar comprising districts of Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, parts of Palamau and Girdih and adjoining Keonjhar and Sundargarh districts of Orissa. Ecologically diverse regions and farming systems, representing varying soil and edaphic factors were explored for the collection of primitive diversity. The population samples from each site/
miero-niche were obtained randomly, sampling 80-100 panicles/accession. Detailed observations were recorded on 10 randomly drawn panicles/accession. Detailed data were collected on different accessions for panicle and grain characters. The range, mean and standard error ofmeans were calculated. The genepool sampling and its analysis showed occurrence of considerable genetic variability. The differences were prominent for varying degree of adaptation to different soil conditions.