Phenological and productive behavior of promising rice genotypes under rainfed conditions

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), in Nicaragua is a staple food; due to its high demand; obtaining promising rice genotypes through genetic improvement is a strategy employed to increase production and ensure food security. The aim of this research was to evaluate the productive potential of five promising rice genotypes under rainfed conditions at the Fidel Castro Ruz Technological Development Center, located in Posoltega, Chinandega, Nicaragua. A randomized complete block design was used, with nine treatments including five promising genotypes and four commercial varieties, distributed in three replications. The variables evaluated were plant height (cm), tillering, flowering (dde), panicle length (cm), disease tolerance (%), spikelet fertility (%), number of grains per panicle, 1,000-grain weight (g), maturation (days), and yield (kg ha^-1). Analysis of variance was performed after the Shapiro-Wilk normality test and homogeneity of variances assessment, as well as Tukey's test for mean separation at a 5% margin of error, using the statistical software InfoStat 2020. The correlation between variables was also determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). No statistically significant differences were observed in tillering, spikelet fertility, grains per panicle, 1,000-grain weight, yield, or maturity; however, differences were found in plant height (cm), days to flowering, panicle length (cm), and grain discoloration (%). Infections caused by the Helminthosporium sp. complex were presented, ranging from 1% to 5%. The five promising genotypes performed agronomically similarly to commercial varieties; therefore, determining their adaptability and productive stability is essential for the continuation of the breeding process.