Genetic variability, stability and correlation studies in lowland rice (Oryza sativa) genotypes

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during 1994-95 to evaluate 10 early duration rainfed lowland rice (Oryza sativa
L.) genotypes for grain yield and its yield components. Considerable range of variation was expressed for most of the
traits. Grain yield was 2.0-4.2 tonnes/ha while other characters also varied substantially (1 OOO-grain weight: 22.4-
30.9g, grains/panicle: 116-155, panicles/m .140-233 and flagleafarea: 26.28-42.30 cm2).Genotypes showed consistent
significant (p -< 0.01) differences for grain yield, as well as genotype (G) X year (Y) interaction for all other traits with
exception of days to 50% flowering, 'Sipi 692033' and 'Farox. 304-1-2' with grain yields of 4.1 and 3.8 tonnes/ha
respectively, appeared promising. Correlation results showed that grain weight, branches/panicle, panicles/m2 and flagleaf
area could be considered as selection criteria in lowland rice breeding programme in Nigeria.