Rapid Genetic Purity Test in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Using Novel Transit Albino Mutant

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop the new variability in mega seed rice varieties by establishing the novel phenotypic marker. This new genetic variability could be immediate beneficial to the seed industry. The greenrevertible albino mutant ‘a-16’ was developed from the mega rice variety, ASD16 by mutation breeding approach. The albino seedling was turned into normal green seedling at 3-7 leaf stage and this trait is inherited and controlled by Mendelian single recessive gene. The stable green-revertible albino trait was evaluated at different stages to screen the large-scale genetic admixtures at nursery level in a short period of time. A lot of measures were taken to assess the genetic purity in the field and laboratory which could reveal the results after harvest. The adoption of green-revertible albino mutant could reproduce the precise result at seedling level, hence, application of green-revertible albino mutant in seed industry requires technological and policy interventions urgently to verify the rice productivity level in major rice growing areas.