Introgression of blast resistance genes Pi-54 and Pi1 into cold tolerant variety tellahamsa, by marker-Assisted selection

Rice blast, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae, causes yield loss associated with injuries on leaves and necks. Broad spectrum introgression of blast resistance genes Pi-54 and Pi1 from the donor parent NLR145 (Swarnamukhi) into cold tolerant rice variety Tellahamsa (C10754) was carried out using marker assisted selection. The target genes were detected through the blast gene specific molecular marker Pi-54 MAS for gene Pi54 and molecular marker RM224 which is closely linked to gene Pi1 in F1, BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC2F2 generations. In BC2F3, forty five progenies were analyzed through phenotypic assays with different blast pathogens at two blast hot spot regions west Godavari and Nellore. Four BC2F3 progenies possessing two blast resistance genes in homozygous condition (Pi54Pi54 Pi1Pi1) showed blast resistance along with Tellahamsa characteristics were advanced for multi location tests. This work demonstrates the successful application of molecular markers for targeted introgression of major blast genes Pi-54 and Pi1 in to a cold tolerant rice variety, Tellahamsa.