Numerical Taxonomic analysis for the estimation of Genetic Diversity among some traditional rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties of West Bengal

The use of numerical taxonomy in plant systematics is crucial because it allows for the improvement of traditional taxonomic data gathered from sources like as morphology, physiology, chemistry, anatomy, and cytology, among others, by utilizing a better and greater number of documented features. It has been determined that it is crucial to keep track of crop genetic resource management dynamics using the fundamental diversity data of traditional crop varieties or landraces. The protection of rice diversity and the use of diversity for rice breeding are strongly tied to the food security of this region because rice is the most significant staple food in South-East Asia. Traditional rice types continue to grow in many indigenous societies despite the relentless advance of modernization, which includes industrialization and land use rules focused on the market. Folk rice varieties are also grown in various areas of West Bengal. The genetic diversity among these traditional or folk types is the only source for future rice enhancement. In this study, many local rice varieties were gathered from various regions of West Bengal, and "richness data" was calculated utilizing this knowledge. Additional data on agro-morphological traits revealed considerable variations between genotypes. Wide variance among the folk rice genotypes was revealed by estimating mean, range, standard deviation, standard error, and coefficient of variation. Following numerical taxonomic analysis, classification of genotypes revealed high genetic diversity among West Bengal's traditional rice varieties. This genetic variety might be utilised in rice breeding, where it is challenging to get access to new technology.