Estimation of Genetic Parameters for a Number of Nutrient Quality Traits in Rice

Genetic components controlling a number of nutrient quality traits in rice (Oryza sativaL.) were studied using 7×7 half a diallel cross. This experiment were carried out fordetermination of gene action, estimation of heritability and determination the best parents. The contents of P, K, Fe, Zn and Mn were measured from white rice grain flour obtained from studied genotypes. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes for all traits including Potassium (K), Phosphorus (P), Ferrum (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn) contents. Hayman s diallel analysis doesn t carry out for P content due to Inadequacy of additive-dominance model. Diallel analysis revealed that both additive (D) and dominance components (H1 and H2) were significant for K, Fe, Zn and Mn contents. The average degree of dominance showed the over dominance effects for controlling of K, Fe, Zn and Mn contents. The ratio of H2/4H1 indicated approximatelysymmetrical distribution of the genes in K and Zn contents. Also results indicated that anincrease of Zn and Mn contents were controlled by recessive alleles. Broad senseheritability estimates were high for all traits. Value of four mineral elements K, P, Fe andZn contents were high in landraces including Deilmani, Hassani and Shahpasand cultivarsand heritability of these traits were high, therefore, these genotypes can be used as parents in breeding programs for improving nutrient quality in rice.