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Genetic Determinants of Rice Quality and Resilience

  • 26 Aug 2025
  • 2 min read

Source: TH

Scientists in China have discovered the Chalk9 gene responsible for rice chalkiness, a trait that makes grains brittle and opaque during milling, lowering yield and commercial value.

Other Key Genetic Determinants of Rice Quality and Resilience:

Gene/Quantitative Trait Locus

Function

Trait Significance

Pi54, Pi9

Blast disease resistance

Used in breeding for broad, durable disease tolerance

BADH2

Aroma regulation

Unique to fragrant rice, marker for premium varieties

Sd1

Plant height (semi-dwarfing)

Central to Green Revolution, boosts yield, reduces lodging

Saltol QTL

Salt tolerance (seedling stage)

Important for coastal & saline areas, key for stress-resilient breeding

Rice: 

  • Rice is the staple food for most Indians, cultivated on about 25% of the total cropped area, and India ranks as the second-largest producer globally after China & is also the largest exporter of rice globally.
  • It is a kharif crop needing high temperature (>25°C), high humidity, 75–125 cm rainfall, and adequate sunlight; optimal 30°C day / 20°C night, tolerating up to 40°C briefly.
    • Grows best in soils pH 5.5–6.5 with good water-holding capacity and drainage.
  • Leading producers: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab

Read More: Direct Seeding of Rice 

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