Rice has greater diversity it include 50000 variety of strains .mango has 1000 varieties

Maximum Biodiversity in India: Wheat or Rice?

Introduction:
India is known for its rich biodiversity, with a wide variety of flora and fauna spread across its diverse ecosystems. Agriculture plays a crucial role in India's economy and food security. Wheat and rice are two staple food crops that are extensively cultivated in the country. In terms of biodiversity, several factors need to be considered to determine which crop has maximum biodiversity in India.

Diversity of Wheat:
Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is one of the most important cereal crops grown in India. However, in terms of biodiversity, wheat has relatively lower diversity compared to rice. Here are some key points regarding the biodiversity of wheat in India:

1. Species diversity: Wheat cultivation in India primarily involves the cultivation of Triticum aestivum, also known as bread wheat. It is a hexaploid species, meaning it has six sets of chromosomes. Compared to rice, the number of different species and varieties of wheat grown in India is relatively limited.

2. Genetic diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes within a species. Wheat exhibits moderate genetic diversity, with several varieties and cultivars grown across different regions of India. However, compared to rice, the genetic diversity of wheat is relatively lower.

3. Ecological diversity: Wheat cultivation in India is mostly concentrated in the northern and central regions, where the climate and soil conditions are suitable for its growth. Therefore, in terms of ecological diversity, wheat exhibits limited diversity as it is primarily grown in specific regions of the country.

Diversity of Rice:
Rice (Oryza sativa) is another staple food crop widely cultivated in India. It is known for its diverse genetic resources and ecological adaptability. Here are some key points regarding the biodiversity of rice in India:

1. Species diversity: There are two main species of rice cultivated in India: Oryza sativa (common rice) and Oryza glaberrima (African rice). Within these species, there are numerous varieties and sub-varieties grown across different regions of the country. This diversity contributes significantly to the overall biodiversity of rice in India.

2. Genetic diversity: Rice exhibits high genetic diversity, with a wide range of landraces, traditional varieties, and modern cultivars. Farmers in different regions have developed locally adapted rice varieties over centuries, resulting in a diverse gene pool. This genetic diversity is crucial for breeding programs and improving the resilience of rice crops.

3. Ecological diversity: Rice cultivation in India is spread across various agro-climatic zones, including lowland, upland, and flood-prone regions. Different rice varieties are cultivated based on the specific ecological conditions, resulting in a diverse range of rice ecosystems across the country.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, considering the various factors such as species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecological diversity, it is evident that rice has maximum biodiversity in India compared to wheat. Rice exhibits a wide range of species, genetic resources, and ecological adaptations, making it a highly diverse crop in the country. However, it is important to note that both wheat and rice cultivation contribute to the overall agricultural diversity in India and play significant roles in ensuring food security.