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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Early Access

Harnessing multi-trait selection indices to accelerate identification of elite genotypes for enhanced genetic gain in rice

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.13684
Submitted
15 January 2026
Published
14-05-2026
Versions

Abstract

To enhance rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain yield, it is essential to use robust multi trait selection indices that account for complex trait interactions and genotype-by-environment effects. Conventional single trait selection methods are inadequate due to the polygenic nature and correlated behaviour of yield related traits, thereby limiting genetic gains. This study evaluated 72 genetically diverse parental lines, including 9 cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) lines and 63 maintainer/restorer lines, using an integrated multivariate framework. Analytical tools such as correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical clustering with heatmaps and the multi-trait genotype ideotype distance index (MGIDI) were employed to identify elite genotypes with balanced trait performance. The correlation analysis showed that grain yield was positively associated with the number of productive tillers (NPT), spikelet fertility (SF) and the number of filled grains per panicle (NFG). Conversely, it was negatively correlated with the number of days to 50 % flowering and maturity, indicating the advantage of moderately early genotypes. Principal component analysis revealed that yield-contributing traits significantly influenced the first 2 principal components, explaining most of the phenotypic variation. Cluster analysis and radar profiling grouped genotypes into distinct performance classes, while MGIDI effectively identified ideotype- proximal genotypes with superior multi-trait characteristics. The strong concordance between MGIDI rankings and high-yield groups validated its reliability for strategic parental selection. Based on MGIDI and overall multi-trait performance, 12 restorers (TCP-783, TCP-960, TCP- 951, TCP-964, TCP-963, PSV-15, TCP-801, PSV-49, TCP-950, TCP-795, PSV-41 and TCP-718) and four CMS lines (PUSA 5B, IR 68897B, APMS-6B and IR 79156B) were identified as elite parents for hybrid breeding. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated multivariate tools for evidence-based genotype prioritisation and balanced genetic improvement in rice breeding programs.

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