The upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes are crucial genetic resources for climate resilience and productivity under challenging conditions grown in rainfed environments. This study aimed to characterize the local upland rice cultivars from Bungo Regency, Jambi Province, Indonesia, focusing on morphological and agronomic traits to support conservation and breeding. Field exploration was successful through sampling across six subdistricts to capture the genotype and environmental variations. In assessing key traits, a field experiment with 25 upland rice cultivars continued in a randomized block design. Data analysis included variance assessment, post-hoc testing via Tukey’s HSD (honestly significant difference), and cluster analysis using the Euclidean distance, visualized through a dendrogram. The results revealed significant phenotypic variability among the upland rice cultivars for culm, leaf, tiller, panicle, and grain traits. Cluster analysis identified six distinct genetic groups, indicating a broad genetic base and unique adaptive traits among cultivars. Some cultivars exhibited high genetic similarity, while others showed distinct genetic divergence, suggesting potential for targeted breeding and conservation efforts. This diversity emphasizes the adaptive evolution of rice cultivars to local environmental conditions and their breeding values. The study underscores the importance of conserving genetic resources to support climate-resilient breeding and food security.

Keywords: Upland rice (O. sativa L.), genetic diversity, genetic resources, climate resilience, morphological traits, cluster analysis, genetic relationship

Key findings: Significant phenotypic variability among the upland rice (O. sativa L.) cultivars for culm, leaf, tiller, panicle, and grain traits showed considerable diversity. Six distinct genetic clusters highlighted the unique genetic relationship and potential adaptive strategies.