Assessing the Potential Seed Vigor of Rice Varieties

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a fundamental staple crop, feeding billions and sustaining livelihoods worldwide. Amid the global food security context, rice holds a pivotal role, demanding increased efficiency and productivity to meet the dietary demands of a growing global population. Emphasizing seed quality and vigor is crucial in achieving these goals. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) responds to the dynamic agro-climatic conditions by introducing rice varieties tailored to Tamil Nadu's unique agricultural landscape. This research paper examines the seed vigor of TNAU released rice varieties within the seed chain. The study was conducted in a completely randomised design, the study assessed seed vigor in terms of radicle emergence time, mean germination time, germination percentage, speed of emergence, shoot length, root length, days to first count, days to final count, vigour index – I, vigour Index – II, electrical conductivity, and field emergence. Seed vigor also impacts storage potential. This study results shows that the rice varieties were categorized into three groups based on seed vigor. Twelve exhibited high seed vigor potential including ADT 51, CO52, TRY 1, TRY3, TKM13, ADT39, ADT 54, BHAVANI, ASD16, ADT37, ADT43, and ADT 53. Six showed medium potential including CO 53, ASD 19, IW Ponni, TKM 9, ADT 42, and ADT 45. Eight had low seed vigor potential including CO 50, ADT 52, TPS5, VGD 1, ADT 38, ADT 46, CO 51, and MDU 6. These classifications aid informed seed management and cultivation decisions, highlighting the suitability of high-vigor varieties for direct seeding and improved agricultural productivity.