Semi-dwarf IR36

Semi-dwarf IR36 is a variety of rice that was developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines. It is known for its high yield and resistance to various pests and diseases, making it a popular choice among farmers in many parts of the world.

History

The development of Semi-dwarf IR36 began in the late 1960s as part of the Green Revolution, a global effort to increase agricultural productivity. The IRRI, with funding from the Rockefeller Foundation and the Ford Foundation, sought to create a new variety of rice that could withstand the challenges of modern farming.

After years of research and testing, Semi-dwarf IR36 was released in 1976. It quickly gained popularity due to its high yield and resistance to pests and diseases. Today, it is grown in many countries around the world, including India, China, and the Philippines.

Characteristics

Semi-dwarf IR36 is a short-statured variety of rice, typically growing to a height of about 1 meter. This makes it less prone to lodging, or falling over, which can significantly reduce yield.

The variety is also known for its high yield potential. Under optimal conditions, it can produce up to 10 tons of rice per hectare, significantly higher than traditional varieties.

In addition, Semi-dwarf IR36 has a high level of resistance to several major rice pests and diseases, including brown planthopper, bacterial leaf blight, and blast disease. This makes it a more reliable choice for farmers, as it reduces the risk of crop failure.

Impact

The introduction of Semi-dwarf IR36 has had a significant impact on global rice production. Its high yield and disease resistance have helped to increase productivity and reduce the risk of crop failure, contributing to food security in many parts of the world.

However, the widespread adoption of Semi-dwarf IR36 has also raised concerns about genetic diversity in rice. As more farmers grow this variety, there is a risk that other, potentially valuable varieties could be lost.