Field performance of anther-culture-derived lines from F1 crosses of Indica rices under saline and nonsaline conditions.

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate and compare the yield and agronomic characteristics of anther-culture-derived (AC) lines in rice and the parents under saline and nonsaline soil conditions. The yield stability of two entries was also evaluated by comparing their performance under two distinct nonsaline soil environments. The test entries were planted in randomized complete block design with four replications at each test location. Data were collected on grain yield, yield components, and agronomic characteristics. This study demonstrates that through anther culture, it is possible to produce homozygous diploid lines in a short time. The possibility of regenerating recombinants with desirable characteristics such as good plant type and salinity tolerance, higher yield, and increased resistance to pests and diseases from both the parents is high.