Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.6, 317-324 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 317 Research Insight Open Access Research Insights into Rice High Yield: Balancing Genetics and Agronomy Ruchun Chen, Jianquan Li Hier Rice Research Center, Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: jianquan.li@hibio.org Field Crop, 2024, Vol.7, No.6 doi: 10.5376/fc.2024.07.0032 Received: 05 Nov., 2024 Accepted: 08 Dec., 2024 Published: 20 Dec., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Chen and Li, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Chen R.C., and Li J.Q., 2024, Research insights into rice high yield: balancing genetics and agronomy, Field Crop, 7(6): 317-324 (doi: 10.5376/fc.2024.07.0032) Abstract This study explores the interaction between genetic progress and agronomic practices in improving rice productivity, discusses key yield related genes such as GS2 and IDEAL plant structural genes, and conducts genome-wide association studies (GWAS) The QTL for increased yield was identified, and the progress of genetic engineering, including the application of CRISPR/Cas9 and the development of hybrid rice varieties, was introduced. In terms of agronomy, optimized nutrient management strategies, innovative water-saving irrigation technologies, and modern cultivation methods were summarized to contribute to improving yield. Case studies emphasized the integration of genetics and agronomy in resource limited areas, demonstrating the improvement of yield, sustainability, and economic benefits. A collaborative approach combining genetics and agronomy innovation using remote sensing, big data analysis, and public-private partnerships was proposed, emphasizing the importance of coordinating genetics and agronomy to sustainably achieve global rice yield goals. This study aims to provide directions for the future, including exploring undeveloped wild rice varieties, advancing epigenetic research, and promoting global partnerships to expand sustainable practices. Keywords Rice yield; GS2 gene; IDEAL plant architecture; Genetic engineering; Agronomic practices 1 Introduction Rice is a fundamental staple crop, serving as the primary food source for over half of the global population, particularly in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. It plays a crucial role in food security, providing up to 50% of the dietary caloric intake for millions living in poverty (Muthayya et al., 2014). As a staple crop, rice is not only vital for nutrition but also for the economic stability of many countries, contributing significantly to the annual crop value (Verma et al., 2021). Despite its importance, rice production faces numerous challenges that threaten its yield and sustainability. One of the primary challenges in achieving high rice yield is the limited availability of arable land, which is exacerbated by the growing global population and urbanization (Wing et al., 2018). Climate change further complicates rice cultivation by introducing unpredictable weather patterns, increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, and altering pest and disease dynamics (Cai et al., 2024). Additionally, resource constraints such as water scarcity and the need for sustainable agricultural practices pose significant hurdles (Maraseni et al., 2018). These challenges necessitate innovative solutions, including the development of climate-resilient rice varieties and the adoption of sustainable agronomic practices. This study explores the balance between genetic progress and agronomic practices in increasing rice yield. By integrating genomics and sustainable agricultural technologies, we gain a deeper understanding of how to coordinate these methods to meet the growing demand for rice while minimizing environmental impact. The content covers analyzing current challenges, potential solutions, and the role of international cooperation and policies in supporting sustainable rice production. This study aims to contribute to the current discussions on global food security and the sustainable development of rice as a key food resource. 2 Genetic Contributions to High Rice Yield 2.1 Identification of key yield-related genes The genetic architecture of rice yield is complex, involving multiple quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that influence
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