Detection of genes helps rice plants withstand flooding

Scientists say the gene has been identified to help rice survive in flooding for up to 2 weeks.

Most rice varieties die within a week of being submerged under water, but researchers hope the new gene will help protect plants that provide the largest source of food globally.

Farmers in Southeast Asia lost about $ 1 billion a year due to devastating crops. Many rice-growing areas in southern Asia, located in low-lying areas, face the risk of flooding during the rainy season. Rice when submerged under water for a few days will gradually lose oxygen, wither and die.

The research team from the University of California, USA and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines said the gene called Sub1A-1 will protect rice better from inundation. They said it would help farmers to have a good crop, especially for those who live in areas prone to typhoons and floods.

Although the amount of rice produced has doubled in the past 40 years, demand continues to increase. This is the main food source for more than 3 billion people worldwide.

MT