Detecting genetic factors that foster pest resistance in rice is important in stabilising production and reducing yield losses. This video-clip explains how recent research has found nine potential genes responsible for resistance.
Rice is the most important cereal crop and daily food source for more than half of the world’s population, particularly in developing countries. Crop loss due to pests and disease is a major threat to human nutrition and health. It is estimated that one third of the world’s annual rice yield is lost to pests.
Breeding disease-resistant rice varieties is essential when there is no access to other affordable control measures. New breeds are a way of preventing crop loss, reducing hunger, improving nutrition and providing more stable economic and food security.
How can we identify the genetic factors associated with disease resistance in order to breed better crops? The resistance genes uncovered in this genome-wide association study have not been described previously. Nine potential resistance genes are now being tested in the field. They represent new tools for rice breeders to improve elite varieties, and can benefit rice growers.
This video-clip was produced as part of the r4d programme Digital Storytellers synthesis project. Its contents were filmed and selected by Julian Greenwood, University of Zurich, in collaboration with research partners in the Philippines. The digital storytelling process was accompanied and supported by Paitití Lab.Watch on YouTube.
