Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 270-280 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 275 optimize nutrient use and maximize economic yield. This approach involves iterative adjustments to fertilizer application based on soil nutrient status and crop growth, ensuring that nutrients are supplied in the right amounts at the right times. 7 Technological Innovations in Rice Cultivation 7.1 Precision agriculture and digital tools Precision agriculture and digital tools have revolutionized rice cultivation by enhancing resource use efficiency and increasing yields. The integration of site-specific nutrient management with alternate drying and wetting irrigation has shown significant improvements in both yield and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). For instance, a preliminary precision rice management (PRM) system increased grain yield by 10% and NUE by 51%~97% over traditional farmer practices (Zhao et al., 2013). Additionally, the use of big data, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in smart farming has enabled better prediction of changes and identification of opportunities in rice production. These technologies facilitate smart irrigation, yield estimation, growth monitoring, and disease assessment, transforming traditional practices into precision agriculture (Figure 3) (Alfred et al., 2021). 7.2 Biotechnology and genetic engineering Biotechnology and genetic engineering have played a crucial role in improving rice yields. Advances such as CRISPR-Cas9, molecular marker-assisted breeding, and genetic engineering have significantly enhanced the genetic potential of rice. These technologies have led to the development of high-yielding, stress-tolerant, and disease-resistant rice varieties. For example, modern genetic strategies have resulted in semi-dwarf rice types, new plant types, and hybrid rice, all contributing to increased yield potential (Altaf et al., 2021). Moreover, high-yielding rice cultivars have been shown to reduce methane emissions by increasing root porosity and promoting methane oxidation, thereby mitigating climate change impacts while enhancing productivity (Jiang et al., 2017). 7.3 Smart farming techniques Smart farming techniques, including the use of advanced agronomic practices and innovative management systems, have been pivotal in increasing rice yields. The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and other smart cultural management practices, such as optimized transplanting density and improved nitrogen management, have demonstrated substantial yield gains. For instance, the adoption of SRI elements, such as transplanting young seedlings and intermittent irrigation, has been shown to increase tiller and root numbers, thereby enhancing yield. Additionally, integrating planting density, nitrogen, and water management practices has significantly improved root traits and stubble characteristics, leading to higher grain yields and nitrogen agronomic efficiency in ratoon rice systems (Zheng et al., 2023). Figure 3 Mapping of big data, machine learning and paddy rice smart farming tasks (Adopted from Alfred et al., 2021)
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