Determination and expression of genes for resistance to blast (<i>Magnaporthe oryza</i>) in Basmati and non-Basmati <i>indica</i> rices (<i>Oryza sativa</i> L.)

Abstract

One hundred and twenty two (122) genotypes of Basmati and non-Basmati Indica rice genotypes were evaluated for expression of resistance against blast disease under induced epiphytotic conditions. Disease severity (%) and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) parameters were used for screening the blast resistance. Only 13 genotypes expressed resistance against the blast disease. Nine genotypes carried blast resistance genes but, were susceptible under induced epiphytotic conditions. The rice genotype VLD-61 had no resistance genes; however, it expressed strong resistance against blast. An empirical breeding strategy for development of blast resistant improved varieties of rice was also discussed.

Keywords: Magnaporthe oryzae, restriction digestion, molecular breeding, Basmati rice

African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 12(26), pp. 4098-4104