International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 229-240 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 229 Research Insight Open Access Genetic Diversity Studies in Myanmar’s Core Landrace Rice Varieties Nant Nyein Zar Ni Naing 1, 4, Chunli Wang 1, 3, Cui Zhang 1, 3, Junjie Li 1, 3, Juan Li 1, 2, 3, Qian Zhu 1, 2, 3, Lijuan Chen 1, 2, 3 , Dongsun Lee 1, 2, 3 1 Rice Research Institute, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China 2 The Key Laboratory for Crop Production and Smart Agriculture of Yunnan Province, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China 3 State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China 4 Department of Plant Breeding, Physiology and Ecology, Yezin Agricultural University (YAU), Nay Pyi Taw 15013, Myanmar Corresponding author: chenlijuan@hotmail.com International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 2024, Vol.14, No.5 doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.15.0024 Received: 19 Aug., 2024 Accepted: 27 Sep., 2024 Published: 05 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Naing et al., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Naing N.N.Z.N., Wang C.L., Zhang C., Li J.J., Li J., Zhu Q., Chen L.J., and Lee D.S., Genetic diversity studies in Myanmar’s core landrace rice varieties, International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity, 14(5): 229-240 (doi: 10.5376/ijmeb.2024.15.0024) Abstract Myanmar’s core landrace rice varieties represent a vital genetic reservoir essential for the resilience and sustainability of rice cultivation. This study summarizes the genetic diversity of these landraces, shaped by diverse agro-ecological conditions and traditional farming practices. Despite significant genetic variability, current studies face limitations such as insufficient high-resolution genomic data, inconsistent methodologies, and inadequate geographic and ecological coverage. The study highlights recent advancements in genomic technologies, such as whole-genome sequencing and genotyping-by-sequencing, and their potential to overcome these challenges. Furthermore, it discusses the integration of phenomic tools, bioinformatics, and participatory breeding programs to enhance our understanding of genotype-phenotype relationships. We suggest future research priorities including comprehensive collection and conservation of underrepresented landraces, detailed association studies linking genetic variants with key agronomic traits, and exploring epigenetic mechanisms underlying trait expression. The study underscores the importance of socio-economic studies and policy engagement for the sustainable use and conservation of these valuable genetic resources. By leveraging emerging technologies and addressing current limitations, researchers can unlock the full potential of Myanmar's landrace rice varieties, contributing to global rice breeding efforts and agricultural sustainability. Keywords Genetic diversity; Landrace rice varieties; Genomic technologies; Myanmar rice; Sustainable agriculture 1 Introduction Genetic diversity in rice is crucial for the sustainability and improvement of rice cultivation. It provides the genetic pool necessary for breeding programs aimed at enhancing yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to changing environmental conditions. The genetic variation within rice species allows for the identification of beneficial traits that can be harnessed to develop superior rice varieties. Studies have shown that genetic diversity is essential for maintaining the resilience of rice crops against biotic and abiotic stresses, thereby ensuring food security for a growing global population (Myint et al., 2012; Thant et al., 2021). Myanmar’s rice germplasm, composed of diverse landrace varieties, represents a valuable yet underutilized genetic resource. This germplasm offers immense potential for rice breeding and genetic research, providing critical opportunities to develop new varieties with improved resilience, yield, and quality (Tun et al., 2006; Yamanaka et al., 2011; Myint et al., 2012; Watanabe et al., 2016; Thant et al., 2021). These landraces are adapted to various ecological zones across the country, including upland, lowland, and delta regions. In addition to their genetic uniqueness, Myanmar's landrace rice varieties are integral to the cultural and socio-economic fabric of the country. Research has demonstrated that Myanmar's rice varieties possess unique genetic traits, such as specific aroma genes and resistance to rice blast disease, which are not commonly found in other rice-growing regions (Myint et al., 2012; Ma et al., 2020; Thant et al., 2021). As the world faces increasing threats from climate change, pests, and diseases, the genetic reservoir found in Myanmar's rice landraces offers invaluable resources for breeding resilient and high-yielding rice varieties. The genetic diversity within these landraces is not only a testament to the country’s agricultural heritage but also a valuable resource for future rice breeding programs (Myint et al., 2023).
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