Genetic variability and association of microsatellite markers with seed physiological traits related to seed vigour in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract High seed vigour is vital for successful nursery management and crop establishment. Genetic variability in seed vigour traits and association with 41 SSR markers in 44 Indian rice varieties was studied.Analysis of variance indicated presence of high genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance.Selecting for these traits would be effective for seed vigour improvement.Among 41 markers, 39 were polymorphic.Out of 141 alleles detected 138 were polymorphic.The number of alleles per locus varied from 2 to 5. The overall size of amplified products varied from 50 bp (RM 240) to 600 bp (RM 13). The PIC value of each marker ranged from 0.013 to 0.967, with an average of 0.430. 44 rice varieties were classified into five major clusters based on their genetic similarity values and maturity periods.RM 1353, RM 250 and RM 229 on chromosomes number 7, 2 and 11, respectively were associated with all seed physiological traits.The traits identified and markers detected in the association analysis will be useful for improvement of seed vigour in rice.