Deepwater rice

Swimming for rice

Deepwater rice is a type of rice (Oryza sativa) that is cultivated in regions where the fields are flooded with water that is deeper than 50 cm (20 inches) for a significant part of the growing season. This type of rice is specially adapted to grow in conditions where other types of rice would not survive.

Characteristics

Deepwater rice has several unique characteristics that allow it to thrive in flooded conditions. These include:

• **Elongation ability**: Deepwater rice can elongate its stems rapidly to keep pace with rising water levels. This is a crucial adaptation that prevents the plant from being submerged.
• **Floating ability**: Some varieties of deepwater rice have the ability to float on the water surface, which helps them survive in extremely deep water.
• **Aerenchyma formation**: The formation of aerenchyma, which are air-filled spaces in the stem, helps the plant to transport oxygen from the air to the submerged parts of the plant.

Cultivation

Deepwater rice is primarily grown in regions of South Asia and Southeast Asia where seasonal flooding is common. Countries such as Bangladesh, India, Thailand, and Vietnam are known for cultivating deepwater rice. The cultivation practices for deepwater rice differ significantly from those of other types of rice due to the unique environmental conditions.

Varieties

There are several varieties of deepwater rice, each adapted to specific flooding conditions. Some of the well-known varieties include:

• **Oryza sativa var. indica**: Commonly grown in South Asia.
• **Oryza sativa var. japonica**: Grown in parts of Southeast Asia.

Challenges

The cultivation of deepwater rice faces several challenges, including:

• **Unpredictable flooding**: Variability in the timing and extent of flooding can affect crop yields.
• **Pests and diseases**: Deepwater rice is susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can be exacerbated by the wet conditions.
• **Labor-intensive**: The cultivation and harvesting of deepwater rice are labor-intensive processes.

Research and Development

Research is ongoing to develop new varieties of deepwater rice that are more resilient to changing environmental conditions and have higher yields. Organizations such as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) are at the forefront of this research.

See also

• Rice
• Flooded rice
• International Rice Research Institute
• Agriculture in South Asia
• Agriculture in Southeast Asia