Unearthing old rice germplasm, illuminating a new way to improvement
- From
-
Published on
20.05.24
- Impact Area

Scientists are delving into molecular genetics to enhance crop yield per unit. This approach hinges on unlocking the potential of favorable gene resources, which lie dormant within the vast collections of germplasms stored in worldwide germplasm banks, akin to a treasure trove awaiting discovery. That being said, only a small fraction of germplasms have been thoroughly examined thus far. This study highlights the effectiveness of mining gene resources from germplasm to overcome current yield limitations in crops.
We are on the cusp of a new era, with the global population surpassing 8 billion, and over half relying on rice as their staple food. Despite this growing demand, rice yield per unit has seemingly plateaued for many years. This stagnation raises serious concerns about future global food security, especially considering the shrinking arable land in many countries.
To tackle this challenge, scientists are delving into molecular genetics to enhance crop yield per unit. This approach hinges on unlocking the potential of favorable gene resources, which lie dormant within the vast collections of germplasms stored in worldwide germplasm banks, akin to a treasure trove awaiting discovery.
That being said, only a small fraction of germplasms have been thoroughly examined thus far. Insights into this issue can be gleaned from the study of a particular rice germplasm known as clustered-spikelet rice (CL). CL, with its distinctive clustered growth of multiple grains, played a significant role in constructing the rice chromosome linkage map when genome sequence information was lacking.
Related news
-
UPLB, KOICA, and IRRI Celebrate Completion of Main Structure of Advanced Genomics Research Center (AGRC)
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)07.05.25-
Food security
LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (22 April 2025) – The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB),…
Read more -
-
The world is nowhere near the goal of zero hunger by 2030 amid uncertain global development financing. What now?
International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)05.05.25-
Food security
By James Allen IV May 5, 2025 In the wake of a series of recent crises…
Read more -
-
DA-BAR and IRRI discuss strategies for advanced rice research and innovation in the Philippines
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)02.05.25-
Food security
Los Baños, Laguna (April 30, 2025) — The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Resea…
Read more -