Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 151-162 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 153 Rainfed Agriculture: This type relies solely on rainfall for water. It is common in semi-arid regions where irrigation is not feasible (Mavrodi et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2019). Conservation Agriculture: This approach includes practices like minimal soil disturbance, crop rotation, and maintaining soil cover to enhance water retention and soil health (Lu et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2019). Agroforestry: Integrating trees and shrubs into crop and livestock systems to improve biodiversity, soil structure, and water use efficiency (Lu et al., 2018; Hakim et al., 2021). 3.2 Comparison of dryland and traditional irrigated farming Dryland farming and traditional irrigated farming differ significantly in terms of water use, crop yield, and soil health: Water Use: Dryland farming relies on rainfall, making it more sustainable in water-scarce regions. In contrast, traditional irrigated farming depends on consistent water supply from irrigation systems, which can deplete water resources (Mavrodi et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2019). Crop Yield: While irrigated farming generally results in higher yields due to controlled water supply, dryland farming can be optimized through practices like frequently alternate wetting and drying (FAWD) to maintain yields without excessive water use (Mavrodi et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2019). Soil Health: Dryland farming often promotes better soil health through practices like crop rotation and reduced tillage, which enhance microbial activity and soil structure. In contrast, traditional irrigated farming can lead to soil degradation and salinization if not managed properly (Lu et al., 2018; Schlatter et al., 2019; Hakim et al., 2021). 3.3 Implementation of dryland farming in rice cultivation Implementing dryland farming in rice cultivation involves several strategies to optimize root growth and rhizosphere microbial functions: Irrigation Management: Techniques like FAWD can be used to optimize water use efficiency and maintain grain yield. This method also enhances the abundance of beneficial rhizosphere bacteria, which aid in nutrient uptake (Xu et al., 2019; Zhang et al., 2019). Microbial Inoculation: Introducing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and beneficial fungi like Piriformospora indica can enhance root growth and rhizosheath formation, improving drought resistance and nutrient uptake in rice (Hakim et al., 2021; Xu et al., 2021; Hussain et al., 2022 ). Soil Amendments: Applying organic matter and phosphorus fertilizers in a controlled manner can improve soil fertility and support a healthy microbial community, which is crucial for sustainable rice production in dryland conditions (Ding et al., 2019; Zhang et al., 2019). By adopting these strategies, dryland farming can be effectively implemented in rice cultivation, promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing crop resilience to water scarcity. 4 Root Growth in Hybrid Rice 4.1 Root system architecture and function The root system architecture (RSA) of hybrid rice plays a crucial role in nutrient and water uptake, which are essential for plant growth and productivity. The RSA includes various root types such as nodal roots, lateral roots, and root hairs, each contributing differently to the plant's overall function. For instance, lateral roots and growing root tips are particularly important for phosphate uptake, especially under varying water and phosphorus conditions (Bauw et al., 2020). Additionally, root exudates, which are chemical compounds secreted by roots, significantly influence the microbial community in the rhizosphere, thereby affecting root growth and function (Li et al., 2019; Upadhyay et al., 2022). An enormous diversity of microbes dwelling in root-associated zones,
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