Abstract:
Rice cultivation in Sri Lanka faces significant challenges due to
susceptibility to flooding and wet conditions, affecting crop yield. To address
this issue, a comprehensive study was conducted with the primary focus was
to assess the survival and recovery capacities of 37 rice varieties, including
30 IRRI entries and 7 global check varieties (2 susceptible and 5 tolerant),
under controlled artificial field conditions simulating submergence. The
methodology involved the collection and preparation of seeds, followed by
nursery cultivation in nursery trays with Randomized Complete Block
Design (RCBD) with three replicates. The submerged conditions were
carefully regulated for 14 days, mimicking flooding scenarios in the Lowland
Wet Zone under Control Conditions. The data obtained were analyzed using
the Standard Evaluation System for Rice by IRRI (2002), categorizing
entries based on survival rates. The experimental design followed a
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. This
research offers valuable insights into identifying potential rice varieties
(Local Test Entry, Local Check, IRRI156, IR19A7712, IR19A8982, Local
Test Entry, IRRI123, IR19A7886, Local Check, IR19A7994, Local Check,
IR19A7963, IR19A7974, IR19A8596, IR19A7710, IR19A7798, Local Test
Entry, Local Test Entry, Local Test Entry, Local Test Entry, Local Check,
Local Test Entry, Local Check, Local Test Entry, IR19A9000,Local Test
Entry, Local Test Entry, Local Check, Local Test Entry, Bg 364, Bg 372, NP
14-7-5,Bg 360, Bg 379/2, IR19A8767, IR19A7983, IR42) with enhanced
flood tolerance, providing crucial information for further breeding and
development programs. The findings contribute significantly to addressing
the challenges of unpredictable flooding in rice cultivation, offering
pathways for improved resilience and sustainable production in flood-prone
regions.
