New Rice Gene EMF3 Discovered to Mitigate Heat Stress
Scientists from Japan's National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), other Japanese institutions, and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have identified a gene named EMF3 (Early Morning Flowering 3) that alters rice flowering times. This gene causes rice to flower earlier in the morning, a period when temperatures are typically cooler. This adaptation is crucial for tropical and subtropical regions, helping rice avoid heat stress that can severely impact grain formation and overall yields, particularly amidst threats like El Niño-driven heatwaves and prolonged dry spells.
Researchers have identified a new gene, EMF3 (Early Morning Flowering 3), in rice that shifts its flowering period to the early morning. This discovery aims to help rice plants cope with high temperatures during their most vulnerable flowering stage.
The gene enables rice to flower when ambient temperatures are cooler, thereby avoiding heat stress. This stress can lead to reduced grain formation and lower yields, a significant concern in tropical and subtropical rice-growing regions.
The findings address the increasing threat to rice production posed by El Niño-driven heat and extended dry spells.
The research was conducted by scientists from Japan's National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), other Japanese research institutions, and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Their work has been published in the Plant Biotechnology Journal.
(Source: Phys.org)
