Abstract:
Landraces are precious genetic resources, because they contain huge genetic variability which can be
used to complement and broaden the gene pool of advanced genotypes. Knowledge of the genetic
diversity and population structure of germplasm collections is an important foundation for crop
improvement. The aim of this study was to morphologically characterize the Kenyan rice germplasm
collection for identification of important agronomic traits for improved yield. Field experiments were
carried out in order to study the diversity in morpho-physiological characteristics of rice genetic material
collected from different Kenyan rice growing regions. A total of 50 lines were used in this study. The
experiment was carried out at the JKUAT rice experimental field. Each line was sown in single plots that
were 2m long at spacing of 20cm with rows 0.4m apart. The time to heading and to maturity
significantly differed between the varieties tested (p<0.05) ranging from 75 - 140 days and the time to
maturity from 120 - 185 days. Most of the lines were resistant to lodging and to shattering. Significant
variability was observed for "panicle length" (p< 0.01) that ranged from 16 to 30 cm. Over 50 % of the
lines tested showed well-exserted panicle. The glumes were less than grain in all lines evaluated. Over
90 % of the lines did have apiculus color. Differences among lines were also observed for "leaf blade
anthocyanin coloration", where over 90% showed no blade anthocyanin coloration. There was
significant difference for the "awning" characteristic (p<0.05) with over 50 % being awnless. Results
from the study indicate that genetic variability exists within the Kenyan rice germplasm which form a
good source of materials that could be screened for useful traits and exploited in the rice breeding
programs.
