Weedy rice

Weedy rice, also known as red rice, is a type of wild rice that is considered a pest in commercial rice cultivation. It is a variety of Oryza sativa, the same species as cultivated rice, but exhibits traits of wild ancestors, such as red pericarp and high seed shattering.

Characteristics

Weedy rice is distinguished by its ability to survive in harsh conditions where cultivated rice cannot thrive. It has a high degree of genetic diversity, which allows it to adapt to a wide range of environments. The seeds of weedy rice are typically red, unlike the white or brown seeds of cultivated rice, and they shatter easily, spreading the plant widely.

Impact on Rice Cultivation

Weedy rice competes with cultivated rice for resources, reducing yields. Its seeds are difficult to separate from cultivated rice, lowering the quality of the harvested product. Control of weedy rice is challenging due to its genetic similarity to cultivated rice, which makes selective herbicide use difficult.

Control Methods

Various methods are used to control weedy rice, including hand weeding, flooding, and the use of herbicides. However, these methods are labor-intensive and costly. Recent research has focused on developing genetically modified rice that is resistant to weedy rice.

See Also

• Rice
• Wild rice
• Oryza sativa
• Genetically modified crops