International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 229-240 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 233 The considerable genetic variation observed among Myanmar’s rice germplasm also points to the adaptive strategies developed by local communities in response to environmental stressors such as drought, flooding, and pests. This diversity is a valuable genetic resource for global rice breeding and improvement programs, offering traits that could enhance resilience to climate change and improve yield potential under challenging conditions (Tanksley & McCouch, 1997). The genetic variation observed in Myanmar’s rice germplasm underscores the importance of conserving these landrace varieties for future breeding and genetic improvement efforts (Na et al., 2016). Safeguarding this genetic diversity through both in situ and ex situ conservation strategies is crucial to ensuring food security and maintaining the ecological balance of rice ecosystems in Myanmar and beyond (Jarvis et al., 2008). 3.3 Socio-economic and cultural significance Myanmar’s landrace rice varieties hold deep socio-economic and cultural significance, reflecting centuries of agricultural tradition and adaptation to the country’s diverse ecosystems. It is not only a staple food but also a key component of the country’s agricultural economy. The cultivation of traditional landrace varieties is deeply embedded in the cultural practices and traditions of Myanmar’s farming communities. These varieties are often associated with specific festivals, rituals, and culinary traditions, reflecting their cultural importance (Okoshi et al., 2018). The introduction of modern rice varieties has had mixed impacts on the genetic diversity of traditional landraces. While some modern varieties have displaced traditional ones, others have been integrated into local farming systems, maintaining a balance between modern and traditional practices (Steele et al., 2009). Conserving Myanmar’s landrace rice varieties is vital not only for maintaining the country’s cultural and agricultural heritage but also for securing future breeding programs. The rich genetic diversity within these varieties supports the development of resilient and high-yielding rice crops. (Na et al., 2016; Thant et al., 2021). 4 Molecular Techniques Used in Genetic Diversity Studies 4.1 DNA markers and their applications DNA markers, such as SSR and DArTseq, play a crucial role in genetic diversity studies by revealing the genetic makeup and variability among rice varieties. These markers provide detailed insights, enabling the identification of genetic differences crucial for breeding and conservation efforts. In Myanmar, various DNA markers have been employed to assess the genetic diversity of rice landraces. A study used DArTseq-based SNP and silicoDArT markers to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of local rice varieties in the Ayeyarwady delta. This study identified significant genetic variance among the genotypes and revealed two distinct population groups, highlighting the utility of these markers in distinguishing traditional and modern rice varieties (Thant et al., 2021). Similarly, SSR markers have been widely used to evaluate genetic diversity in rice. Studies have shown that SSR markers can produce polymorphic bands, revealing the population’s variability and aiding in the identification of genotypic differences and genetic relationships (Ram et al., 2010; Bhattacharjee et al., 2021; Hoque et al., 2022). Additionally, the use of SSR and ISSR markers in genomic studies has provided valuable information on the genetic diversity and population structure of rice genotypes, facilitating the selection of diverse and genetically distinct varieties for breeding (Kumbhar et al., 2015). 4.2 Genomic sequencing technologies Genomic sequencing technologies have revolutionized the study of genetic diversity by providing high-resolution data on genetic variations. In Myanmar, DArTseq technology has been employed to explore the genetic diversity of rice varieties. This technology allows for the identification of thousands of SNP and silicoDArT markers, providing a comprehensive view of the genetic landscape of rice populations. The use of DArTseq technology in Myanmar’s rice genetic diversity studies has enabled researchers to identify useful DNA polymorphisms and specific genes conferring desirable phenotypic traits, which are crucial for genome-wide association studies and breeding programs (Thant et al., 2021). 4.3 Bioinformatics tools and data analysis methods Bioinformatics tools and data analysis methods are integral to the interpretation of genetic diversity data. In Myanmar, a range of bioinformatics approaches have been applied to analyze data from DNA markers and
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