Evaluation of genotype suitability for direct seeded rice (DSR) cultivation

Abstract

Direct-seeded rice (DSR) is gaining interest as an alternative to traditional transplanted rice, offering benefits like reduced water and labor requirements. However, poor crop establishment due to environmental stresses hinders DSR success. This study evaluates 17 rice genotypes under DSR for growth, yield parameters and suitability. The plant height, leaf area, dry matter production, yield attributes like productive tillers, panicle length, seed yield and duration to maturity were assessed. Significant genotypic variations were observed for most parameters except unfilled spikelets per panicle. MTU-1010 demonstrated consistently superior field emergence, plant height, leaf area, dry matter accumulation and number of productive tillers compared to other genotypes. It also had highest seed yield (64.08 q/ha) across years. The results emphasize the importance of traits like vigorous seedling growth and tillering ability in determining DSR success. Flowering duration showed significant differences among genotypes, with early varieties being desirable for uniform fields and climate resilience. However, very early maturity may compromise yield potential. MTU-1010 had moderately late flowering and maturity while producing top yields, indicating a complex relationship between these traits under stress. The findings identify MTU-1010 as a promising genotype for DSR cultivation, with potential for further improvement through breeding efforts enhancing its useful traits. The study underscores need for varieties combining high yield potential, vigorous early growth and improved storage ability. Continued research on genotypes, agronomic management and sustainable practices is imperative to make DSR a viable alternative to transplanted rice. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into rice genotypes suitability for DSR and traits influencing productivity