Beijing, March 20: After years of research, Chinese scientists have identified a key gene responsible for the long-term growth of wild rice. Based on this discovery, they have developed a new variety of ‘perennial rice’ that can be harvested continuously for several years after being planted just once. This significant scientific achievement was published on the cover of the international academic journal ‘Science’ on Friday.
Common rice, cultivated in fields, is one of the world’s most important annual food crops. In contrast, its ancestor, wild rice, is a perennial, creeping plant that continues to regenerate like wild grasses. Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted an in-depth analysis of 446 types of wild rice and successfully identified and cloned the key gene that determines the capacity for continuous growth and perenniality in wild rice using advanced biological breeding techniques.
Experts suggest that a large portion of China’s arable land is located in the hilly regions of the southwest, northeast, and northwest. The development of perennial crops will be particularly beneficial in areas where sloped fields and mountainous sites yield comparatively low production. Thus, the new ‘perennial rice’ technology could play a crucial role in the effective use of arable land, reducing agricultural costs, and ensuring long-term food security.
(Source: China Media Group, Beijing)
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