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20 September 2026, Volume 32 Issue 5 Previous Issue   
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Large-Area Increase in Rice Yield & Efficiency
Special Thesis & Basic Research
Varieties & Technology
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Large-Area Increase in Rice Yield & Efficiency

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Exploration of Technical Pathways for Large-Scale Unit Yield Improvement of Hybrid Rice in the Hilly Areas of Jiangsu and Analysis of Achievements DING Chao, XU Liping, WANG Zichen, GUAN Yongxiang, LONG Weihua 2026, 32(5): 1-5.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.001 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (898KB) ( )   To address the critical constraints limiting hybrid rice productivity in the hilly regions of Jiangsu, including fragmented farmland, infertile soils, frequent extreme weather disasters, extensive field water and fertilizer management, and a lack of stress-resistance techniques, this study established a high-yielding and efficient cultivation system centered on the “Three Preventatives and Four Controls” strategy. Using Luhe District in Nanjing as a representative study area, the core technical components include: “Three Preventatives” (lodging prevention, heat stress mitigation, and pre-harvest sprouting control) and “Four Controls” (management of sowing/transplanting quality, water regimes, fertilizer application, and weed control). Multi-site demonstration results from 2024 to 2025 indicated that, compared to conventional local practices, this integrated technology increased the regional unit yield by 8%-15%, reduced herbicide application frequency by one instance, and significantly enhanced fertilizer use efficiency. Farmers’ net income increased by 205 CNY per 667 m2. Notably, the demonstration site in Zhuzhen Town secured first place in the Jiangsu Provincial Rice High-Yield Competition for two consecutive years. This technical system is well-adapted to the soil and climatic characteristics of Jiangsu’s hilly areas, effectively breaking the bottleneck of stable yield increases. It provides a replicable and scalable solution for stabilizing grain production capacity and achieving cost-efficiency in agriculture.

Special Thesis & Basic Research

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Rice False Smut: An Emerging Global Challenge to Rice Production WANG Furong, FAN Qinjin, QIU Jiehua 2026, 32(5): 6-10.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.002 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (561KB) ( )   Rice false smut (RFS), caused by the filamentous fungus Ustilaginoidea virens, is a typical “old disease with new outbreaks” affecting rice panicles. The pathogen primarily invades the spikelets during the booting stage, colonizes and infects the floral silk tissues, ultimately forming yellowish, dark green, or blackish-green false smut balls. This infection process not only directly leads to significant reductions in seed setting rate, thousand-grain weight, and milling quality but also poses a potential threat to food safety due to toxins produced by the fungus. Currently, RFS has evolved into a major global biological disaster, occurring in 59 countries and affecting over 60.0% of rice-growing areas worldwide. Yield losses typically range from 0 to 44.0%, and can even reach up to 70.0% under extreme conditions. The escalating epidemic trend is driven synergistically by modern agricultural practices (such as the widespread cultivation of high-yielding hybrid rice and excessive nitrogen fertilizer inputs) and global climate change. Significant differences in resistance exist among rice varieties. Generally, early-maturing and loose-panicle types exhibit stronger resistance, no completely immune germplasm resources have been identified to date. Given the scarcity of resistant elite cultivars, chemical control remains the predominant strategy in current production systems. Its efficacy heavily depends on precise timing and fungicide selection; practical experience indicates that applying fungicides once at the early booting stage and again between initial heading and 50% heading can effectively block fungal infection. In summary, rice false smut has transformed from a regional sporadic disease into a critical bottleneck threatening global rice production security. Addressing this challenge requires an urgent integration of resistant genetic breeding and precision green control strategies to establish an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and comprehensive management system, thereby ensuring the stability and safety of the global food supply chain.

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Research Progress on Key Cultivation Techniques of High Eating-Quality Japonica Rice in Shanghai FAN Peng, ZHANG Yu, ZHANG Qiuli, HE Zhuang, JI Pingping, LI Gang 2026, 32(5): 11-15.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.003 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (703KB) ( )   China’s japonica rice industry has transitioned from prioritizing yield to emphasizing quality, with high eating-quality japonica rice(soft rice) becoming the core driver for the high-quality development of Shanghai’s rice sector. Consequently, eating quality has emerged as a key competitive advantage for locally produced rice in Shanghai. Shanghai possesses superior natural conditions—including climate, soil, and water resources—that are conducive to the growth of high eating-quality japonica rice. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on cultivation techniques for high eating-quality japonica rice in the Shanghai region. It focuses on critical cultivation aspects—such as seedling vigor, transplanting regulation, soil amendment, nitrogen fertilizer management, water regime control, and optimal harvest timing—to summarize the regulatory pathways and technical key points influencing the formation of eating quality. Analysis indicates that current production faces several challenges, including insufficient integration of cultivation technologies, low standardization levels, difficulties in synergistically improving stress resistance and eating quality, and the difficulty of balancing green production with high quality and yield. Future efforts should focus on strengthening basic research on the mechanism of eating quality formation and stress-resistant cultivation. Furthermore, it is essential to innovate key techniques that coordinate variety selection with cultivation practices and align green production with quality enhancement. The ultimate goal is to establish a regionalized, standardized, and integrated cultivation technology system for high eating-quality japonica rice, thereby promoting the branding, contract-farming development, and whole-process quality control of Shanghai’s premium rice.

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Advances in Research on the Regulatory Effects of Partial Substitution of Chemical Fertilizers with Organic Fertilizers on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Microbial Communities in Saline-Alkali Soils LIU Zhibo, WEI Renyuan, LI Rongkai, LIU Yang, ZHANG Hui, GAO Pinglei, WEI Huanhe, DAI Qigen, CHEN Yinglong 2026, 32(5): 16-21.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.004 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (776KB) ( )   Soil salinization has become a global issue affecting both ecological environments and resource utilization. In China, saline-alkali land is extensive and diverse, with deteriorated soil physicochemical properties and suppressed microbial functions, which severely restrict soil productivity and sustainable agricultural development. Long-term application of a single type of chemical fertilizer exacerbates secondary salinization, while partial substitution of chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers has emerged as an important technical approach for improving saline-alkali soils. This review synthesizes the amelioration effects of partial organic fertilizer substitution for chemical fertilizers in saline-alkali soils, focusing on its role in improving soil physicochemical properties requlating soil pH, increasing organic matter content, promoting aggregate formation, and aptimizing the supply of soil nutrients. It also discusses the regulatory mechanisms related to soil microbial community diversity, structure, and functional microorganisms, and analyzes the dynamic interactions between soil microbial communities and physicochemical properties. Meanwhile, the paper highlights current research limitations, such as unclear molecular mechanisms of microbial regulation, insufficient understanding of long-term improvement effects and environmental risks, and inadequate technological integration and regional adaptability. Future research should leverage multidisciplinary approaches to deepen studies on synergistic improvement mechanisms, strengthen long-term ecological safety assessments, and develop regionally adapted integrated improvement technology systems. This review provides theoretical foundations and practical references for the development of organic improvement technologies and the breeding of salt-tolerant crop varieties for saline-alkali lands, thereby supporting the efficient and sustainable utilization of saline-alkali resources.

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Effects of Nano Carbon on Cadmium Morphology and Microbial Community Structure in Rice Rhizosphere WANG Hangfeng, ZHU Chunquan, XU Qingshan, KONG Yali, LI Shangpan, CHI Chunxin, ZHU Lianfeng, CAO Xiaochuang, TIAN Wenhao, LI Qiaoling, LI Jingwang, ZHANG Junhua, SHAO Jifeng 2026, 32(5): 22-29.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.005 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (968KB) ( )   To investigate the mechanism by which nanocarbon affects cadmium uptake in rice and the structure of rhizosphere soil microbial communities, the rice cultivar ‘Nipponbare’ was used as the test material. Six pot treatments were established: control (CK), carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes (TSW), carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (TMW), cadmium treatment (TCd), cadmium combined with carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes (TCd+SW), and cadmium combined with carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (TCd+MW). The cadmium content in rice tissues, the concentrations of different cadmium fractions in rhizosphere soil, and the structures of bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere soil were determined. The results showed that compared with the TCd treatment, both the TCd+SW and TCd+MW treatments significantly increased cadmium accumulation in rice. Specifically, the TCd+SW treatment increased cadmium contents in roots, stems, and leaves by 114.19%, 65.84%, and 195.04%, respectively; the TCd+MW treatment increased these values by 231.46%, 205.59%, and 509.17%, respectively. Analysis of cadmium fractions in rhizosphere soil revealed that the exchangeable cadmium content under the TCd+SW treatment was 16.80% higher than that under the TCd treatment. Under the TCd+MW treatment, total cadmium and exchangeable cadmium contents were increased by 9.63% and 45.73%, respectively, compared with the TCd treatment. Microbial community analysis indicated no significant difference in soil bacterial α-diversity between the TCd treatment and CK, whereas the TCd treatment significantly enhanced fungal α-diversity. Compared with the TCd treatment, the TCd+MW treatment significantly reduced both bacterial and fungal α-diversity, significantly decreased the abundance of the plant-growth-promoting bacterium Pseudomonas, and concurrently increased the abundance of the cadmium-activating phylum Actinobacteria and the heavy-metal-tolerant fungal phylum Ascomycota. The TCd+SW treatment only significantly reduced bacterial α-diversity and decreased the abundances of Myxococcota and Cyanobacteria. The study found that soil exchangeable cadmium was the primary factor driving changes in the rhizosphere soil microbial community structure. In summary, carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes can promote cadmium uptake and accumulation in rice by increasing the exchangeable cadmium content in rhizosphere soil, while also altering the rhizosphere soil microbial community structure toward a direction that exacerbates cadmium toxicity. In contrast, carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes exert relatively weaker effects on cadmium uptake in rice and the structure of the rhizosphere microbial community.

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Effects of Replacing Nitrogen Fertilizer with Organic Fertilizer Combined with Foliar Fertilizer on Nutrient Allocation, Yield, and Quality of Different Grain Types Rice SHEN Xian, WANG Baojun, ZHANG Hongmei, ZHOU Zhiguo, ZHANG Haipeng, LI Bin 2026, 32(5): 30-34.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.006 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (606KB) ( )   To clarify the effects of replacing nitrogen (N) fertilizer with organic fertilizer combined with foliar fertilizer on nutrient allocation, yield, and quality in different grain-types high-quality rice varieties, a field experiment was conducted using the long-grain type rice variety Xiushuixiang 1 (L) and the round-grain type rice variety Zhehexang 2 (R). Three treatments were set up: conventional fertilization (CK), 40% N replaced by organic fertilizer (40%M), and 40% N replaced by organic fertilizer plus foliar fertilizer (40%ML). The response characteristics of N, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) translocation, as well as yield and quality, to different N management strategies in the two grain types were investigated. The results showed that, compared with the round-grain variety, the long-grain variety had the highest N and P contents in leaves, along with the highest N, P, and K allocation ratios; the lowest N and K allocation ratios in stems; and the highest K content and K allocation ratio in panicles, but the lowest P content and the lowest N and P allocation ratios in panicles. In addition, organic fertilizer substitution significantly affected nutrient allocation in the two grain types. Compared with L-CK, leaf N content under L-40%M and L-40%ML increased significantly by 51.74% and 51.90%, respectively. Compared with R-CK, panicle N content under R-40%M and R-40%ML increased significantly by 36.65% and 35.19%, respectively. In terms of yield, the L-40%ML and R-40%ML treatments produced the highest yields, increasing by 6.10% and 4.26% over their respective controls. In terms of rice quality, compared with the control, both chalkiness degree and chalky grain rate of theL-40%ML and R-40%ML treatments were significantly reduced, the long-grain variety showed reductions of 13.64% and 16.67%, while the round-grain variety showed reductions of 29.03% and 25.00%, respectively. In conclusion, replacing 40% of N fertilizer with organic fertilizer combined with foliar fertilizer can optimize nutrient uptake and utilization in both grain-types high-quality rice varieties, achieving coordinated improvements in both yield and quality. This provides a feasible strategy for green and efficient production of high-quality rice.

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Effects of Extreme High Temperature on Rice Agronomic Traits and Variety Trial Stability LI Yanling, MIAO Tianhui, SUN Ting, CAO Jing, ZHANG Wenyu, YANG Shudong 2026, 32(5): 35-41.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.007 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (882KB) ( )   Rice is one of the most important food crops in the world, and its growth, development, and yield formation are highly sensitive to temperature conditions. This study systematically analyzed the interannual variation characteristics of major agronomic traits and the effects of extreme high temperature based on data from a 2022—2023 centralized demonstration trial of 97 new rice varieties conducted in Shengzhou City, Zhejiang Province. The results showed that, in high-temperature years, the sowing-to-heading period and the heading duration were significantly extended, the seed-setting rate and thousand-grain weight decreased markedly, and the number of effective panicles slightly increased, leading to a significant overall reduction in yield. In contrast, plant height and grains per panicle did not change significantly between years. Correlation analysis revealed that high temperature weakened the synergistic relationships among growth-period traits, strengthened the resource allocation trade-off between panicle number and grains per panicle, and reduced the predictive accuracy of theoretical yield for actual yield. Principal component analysis further demonstrated that high temperature increased the sensitivity of yield component factors to environmental variation, while reducing the coordination among growth-period traits. In summary, extreme high temperature significantly amplifies the interannual fluctuations in major agronomic trait expression of new rice varieties, thereby, affecting the stability and accuracy of variety trial evaluations. Therefore, it is recommended that in the evaluation process of new rice varieties, the impact of key environmental factors such as extreme high temperatures be comprehensively considered, and the variety evaluation system be optimized to enhance the reliability and targeting of new variety breeding and promotion applications.

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Effects of Cultivation Methods and Water Regulation on Nitrogen Loss and Use of Rice Planting CHEN Yanxiang, HE Jun, CHEN Zhenxiong, CHEN Lei, ZHOU Junxiao, HE Yanchangyue, HUANG Bishan, XIONG Wei, WANG Shubin, XIAO Bin 2026, 32(5): 42-47.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.008 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (1019KB) ( )   To elucidate the effects of cultivation practices and water management strategies on nitrogen migration, transformation, and utilization efficiency in paddy fields, this study established three irrigation modes: continuous flooding (W1), intermittent irrigation (W2), and rainwater storage irrigation (W3). A comparative analysis was conducted between direct-seeded rice (F1) and transplanted rice (F2) regarding nitrogen dynamics in leachate, vertical distribution of soil total nitrogen (TN), and plant nitrogen accumulation characteristics within the 0-40 cm soil layer under different treatments. The results indicated that compared with continuous flooding (W1), both intermittent (W2) and rainwater storage (W3) irrigation significantly reduced the concentrations of total nitrogen (TN), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3--N), and ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N) in leachate at 0-40 cm depth. Notably, transplanted rice exhibited the greatest reductions in NO3--N concentration after basal fertilization, by 3.23 mg/L and 3.40 mg/L, respectively, with the difference widening further after topdressing. Throughout the growth period, the TN content in the 0-40 cm layer of transplanted rice (F2) was generally higher than that of direct-seeded rice (F1), and remained relatively stable at approximately 10.00 g/kg under W2 and W3 mode. Regarding nitrogen accumulation, transplanted rice demonstrated significantly superior translocation efficiency in stems, leaves, and panicles. Correspondingly, the nitrogen harvest index (NHI), apparent nitrogen recovery efficiency (ANRE), and agronomic nitrogen use efficiency (ANUE) of transplanted rice were significantly greater than those of direct-seeded rice. In conclusion, combining transplanted rice with intermittent irrigation can synergistically achieve nitrogen reduction in paddy fields and high nitrogen-use efficiency in plants.

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Regulatory Effects of Calcium Chloride Priming on Seed Germination and Seedling Cold Tolerance of Direct-Seeded Early Rice ZHOU Chuanmeng, QIN Jinfang, GAN Bing, LIANG Ziyue, LIANG Lin, CHEN Haifeng 2026, 32(5): 48-53.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.009 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (698KB) ( )   To improve the quality of germinated seeds and cultivate vigorous seedlings, and to overcome the obstacles posed by low-temperature stress during germination and the seedling stage of direct-seeded early rice in southern China, this study used two high-quality conventional indica rice varieties Yushanzhan and Yumeijinzhan as experimental materials. Seeds were primed with 0, 5, 10, and 20 mmol/L calcium chloride (CaCl2) solutions and subsequently subjected to low-temperature stress (15 ℃) or normal temperature conditions (25 ℃). The effects of exogenous calcium ions on seed germination (germination energy, germination rate, and germination index), seedling morphology, and physiological indices were investigated, with an analysis of varietal response differences. The results showed that low temperatures (15 ℃) significantly inhibited seed germination and seedling growth, reduced antioxidant enzyme activities, increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents, and exacerbated cell membrane lipid peroxidation damage. Under these low-temperature conditions, treatment with 5-10 mmol/L CaCl2 significantly improved the germination index, promoted root and shoot growth, enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), reduced H2O2 and MDA content, and increased soluble protein content, effectively alleviating cold stress injury. Yushanzhanwas sensitive to high concentrations of CaCl2; under 20 mmol/L treatment, its germination, growth, and physiological indices decreased. In contrast, Yumeijinzhan demonstrated relative tolerance to 20 mmol/L CaCl2; although indices declined compared to the 10 mmol/L treatment, no significant growth collapse occurred. Under normal temperature conditions (25 ℃), seed germination, seedling growth, and physiological indices of both varieties initially increased and then decreased with rising CaCl2 concentration. The optimal priming concentration was 5-10 mmol/L; however, 20 mmol/L treatment induced oxidative stress, leading to a substantial increase in MDA and H2O2 contents. In conclusion, significant differences exist in the response of different rice varieties to CaCl2 priming concentrations. When applying CaCl2 priming to direct-seeded early rice before sowing, the appropriate concentration must be selected based on specific varietal characteristics: 5-10 mmol/L is recommended for Yushanzhan, while 10-20 mmol/L can be adopted for Yumeijinzhan. These findings provide technical support for cultivating strong seedlings and enhancing cold tolerance in direct-seeded early rice.

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Effects of Exogenous Amendments Addition on Straw Decomposition and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Winter-Fallow Paddy Fields in Southern Sichuan Under Straw Return HU Jian, LUO Xing, ZHOU Li, MA Jianhua, QIAO Ya, GUO Song, ZHOU Zijun, YANG Zhaoguo, HE Gang, WU Yanxiang, XU Lin, CHEN Kun 2026, 32(5): 54-60.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.010 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (829KB) ( )   To investigate the effects of adding different exogenous amendments on straw decomposition and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in winter-fallow paddy fields under straw returning in the southern Sichuan, a field experiment was conducted in Yibin City, Sichuan Province. Four treatments were set up: straw returning (CK, A0N0); straw returning+nitrogen fertilizer (A0N1); straw returning+microbial agent(A1N0); straw return + microbial agent+nitrogen fertilizer(A1N1). A split-plot experimental design was adopted to systematically measure straw decomposition rates and emission fluxes of methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Results showed that the decomposition rate of CK during the winter-fallow period was significantly lower than that of treatments with combined application of microbial agent and N fertilizer. Among all treatments, the single application of microbial agent achieved the highest decomposition rate in the early stage, reaching 65.08%. Compared with CK, both microbial agent and N fertilizer applications increased the straw decomposition rate, although the rate decreased in the later decomposition stage. The GHG emission fluxes across all treatments exhibited a “U-shaped” dynamic pattern during the winter-fallow period (high in the early stage, low in the middle, and rebounding in the late stage). N fertilizer application significantly enhanced CH4 emissions in the early stage of straw return, while the combined application of microbial agent and N fertilizer reduced CO2 emissions by 59.81%. N2O emissions remained at relatively low levels throughout the winter-fallow period. In terms of global warming potential (GWP), the treatment with sole N fertilizer application had the highest GWP (3,082.50 kg/hm2), whereas the treatment with combined microbial agent and N fertilizer had the lowest GWP (1,924.80 kg/hm2). CO2 contributed most to the total GWP, accounting for 56.65%-75.20% across all treatments.In conclusion, applying a combination of decomposing microbial agent and N fertilizer during straw return in winter-fallow paddy fields of southern Sichuan can not only accelerate straw decomposition but also significantly reduce the overall GHG warming potential, providing important scientific evidence and technical support for green production and improved field management of regional winter-fallow paddy systems.

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Regulation Effects of Different Soil Amendments on Cadmium Contention and Rice Yield in Paddy Fields of the Water Network Plain in Eastern Zhejiang Province SHI Qiwei, MA Jiawei, LIU Wenbin, WU Shaofu 2026, 32(5): 61-66.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.011 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (667KB) ( )   To screen suitable soil amendments for safe rice production in paddy fields with mild cadmium (Cd) pollution in the water network plain of eastern Zhejiang Province, a field plot experiment was conducted. Four soil amendments—low-temperature biochar (550 ℃), high-temperature biochar (700 ℃), Tebeicalcium (limestone), and oyster shell calcium (oyster shell powder)—were applied to systematically investigate their regulatory effects on soil physicochemical properties, Cd bioavailability, heavy metal accumulation and translocation in rice, and rice yield. The results showed that, compared with the control (CK, no amendment), all four amendments increased soil pH by 0.17 to 0.58 units, with oyster shell calcium demonstrating the most effective improvement in soil acidity. Biochar treatments significantly increased soil organic matter (SOM) content by 35.18%-45.27%, whereas calcium-based amendments had no significant effect on SOM. The applation of amendments significantly reduced the available Cd content in the soil by 27.58%-41.38%, with Tebeicalcium showing the best immobilization effect. The application of amendments significantly decreased Cd concentrations in rice roots, stems, and brown rice by 18.04%, 44.32%, and 26.08%, respectively, ensuring that brown rice Cd levels met the national food safety standards. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) of heavy metals in rice organs followed the order: root>stem>leaf>grain. Amendment application significantly reduced the BCF in roots and grains; specifically, Tebeicalcium and high-temperature biochar showed superior performance and effectively inhibited Cd translocation from roots to stems and from aboveground parts to grains. Regarding yield, high-temperature biochar treatment achieved the most significant increase, yielding 17.73% higher than CK. Comprehensive analysis of heavy metal remediation indicated that Tebeicalcium simultaneously and significantly reduced lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) contents in grains. Biochar application reduced grain Cd, chromium(Cr), and Pb contents but posed a risk of increasing As accumulation. Oyster shell calcium showed no significant improvement in Pb or Cr levels. Correlation analysis revealed a highly significant negative correlation between soil pH and both soil available Cd and grain Cd content, indicating that increasing soil pH is the core mechanism for reducing Cd bioavailability and blocking Cd accumulation in rice. In conclusion, Tebeicalcium exhibits significant advantages in reducing grain Cd and controlling compound heavy metal pollution, while high-temperature biochar offers both effective Cd reduction and yield benefits. Both are suitable for promotion in mildly Cd-polluted paddy fields in the water network plain of eastern Zhejiang. Conversely, oyster shell calcium carries a risk of As accumulation in grains and should be used with caution in this region.

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H2S-Mediated Inhibition and Its Mechanism of Arsenic Uptake and Transport by S-Allyl-L-Cysteine in Rice ZHANG Yu, CHANG Jianwei, JIA Xiaoyu, HUANG Yongchun 2026, 32(5): 67-73.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.012 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (926KB) ( )   Developing efficient foliar inhibitors and elucidating their mechanisms of action are of great significance for promoting the application of foliar spraying technology in the remediation of arsenic (As)-contaminated paddy fields. In this study, the rice cultivar Huanghuazhan was used as the test material to investigate the effects of S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) on As accumulation in different rice tissues via pot experiments. Furthermore, the regulatory effects of SAC treatment on grain nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents, the expression levels of related genes, and leaf hydrogen sulfide (H2S) content were analyzed to reveal the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which SAC reduces As content in rice. The results showed that spraying 0.2 mmol/L SAC significantly decreased As content in roots, stems, and grains by 10.1%, 16.1%, and 18.8%, respectively, compared to the untreated control(CK). However, it increased As content in leaves by 11.5%. Additionally, spraying 0.2 mmol/L SAC induced the downregulation of OsLsi1 and OsLsi2 gene expression in leaves and the top first node by 20.0% and 18.2%, respectively, while upregulating the expression of OsABCC1, OsPCS1, OsPAL6 and OsAIM1 by 63.2%, 34.6%, 69.2%, and 76.1%, respectively. It also significantly enhanced the H2S fluorescence signal in leaves. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between SAC concentration and grain As content, and a significant positive correlation with grain N content. Compared with SAC treatment alone, combined spraying of SAC and hypotaurine (HT), significantly increased the As content in grains; reversed the expression of related genes, and weakened the H2S fluorescence intensity in leaves. In conclusion, SAC reduces As accumulation in rice by activating endogenous H2S signaling and regulating the expression of As-related transport and detoxification genes, demonstrating good potential for application in the remediation of As-contaminated soils.

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Primer Design and Applications of Chalk5 Functional Markers for Indica Rice Breeding PAN Xiucai, CHEN Bo, DU Xueshu, FANG Zhenbing, ZHAO Shasha, SUN Qiang, TIAN Yonghong, PAN Gaofeng 2026, 32(5): 74-81.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.013 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (1134KB) ( )   Chalkiness is one of the key indicators for evaluating rice grain appearance quality and milling quality. Chalk5 is the first cloned major gene identified as positively regulating chalkiness rate in indica rice. Developing allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) markers based on its functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is of great significance for optimizing the application of Chalk5 in marker-assisted selection (MAS) breeding for indica premium rice varieties. In this study, targeting two functional SNP loci (-721 and-485) located in the promoter region of the Chalk5 gene, we developed co-dominant molecular markers Chalk5_721 and Chalk5_485 using AS-PCR technology and conducted genotype identification for 42 indica rice accessions. Based on these data, association analysis was performed by integrating Chalk5 genotypes, chalkiness phenotypes, and grain shape traits to explore strategies for utilizing this gene in indica premium rice breeding. The results demonstrated that the designed Chalk5 functional markers could accurately and rapidly distinguish different genotypes through a single routine PCR amplification followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Chalkiness degree showed a significant correlation with Chalk5 genotypes (Chi-square test, P=0.04), where the Chalk5_721T and Chalk5_485T alleles significantly reduced chalkiness in indica rice. Furthermore, in the tested panel of 42 indica rice materials, chalkiness degree exhibited a highly significant negative correlation with grain length-to-width ratio (r=-0.8, P<0.001), indicating that slender grains generally display lower chalkiness levels. Therefore, when applying Chalk5 functional markers for premium rice breeding, it is essential to comprehensively consider yield-related traits such as grain shape and grain weight. This study provides practical tools and theoretical support for the efficient molecular selection of chalkiness traits in indica rice.

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Comprehensive Quality Evaluation of Commercial Rice in China and Comparison with Foreign Varieties ZHANG Xiaoqin, JIANG Huiping, LU Lin, SHAN Yue, CHEN Mingxue, FU Yuanmiao, HU Xianqiao 2026, 32(5): 82-88.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.014 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (854KB) ( )   To comprehensively assess the overall quality status of the rice market in China, this study collected 139 mainstream commercial rice samples. The appearance quality, cooking and eating quality, starch pasting properties, and nutritional quality of northern japonica rice, southern japonica rice, and southern indica rice were systematically analyzed and compared with those of Japanese japonica rice and Southeast Asian indica rice. The results indicated that the appearance and cooking-eating qualities of domestic commercial rice were generally excellent, with a reasonable proportion of core nutritional components such as protein, fat, and starch. The high-quality rate for broken kernel content reached over 94.0%, and the high-quality rate for cooking and eating quality was above 95.0%, The high-quality rate of appearance exceeded 85.0% for all rice except southern japonica rice. Pasting property analysis revealed that the setback value and retrogradation value of southern indica rice were similar to those of northern japonica rice but significantly higher than those of southern japonica rice; meanwhile, its breakdown value was basically consistent with southern japonica rice but lower than that of northern japonica rice. Significant varietal differences were observed: northern japonica rice exhibited the lowest breakdown value and the highest consistency and setback values; Southern japonica rice showed the highest breakdown value and the lowest consistency and setback values; and Japanese japonica rice fell between these two categories. In conclusion, Chinese commercial rice performs excellently in terms of appearance, cooking-eating quality, and nutritional quality, showing no significant difference from rice produced in Japan and Southeast Asia.

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Correlation Study on the Eating Quality of Indica Rice Determined by Multiple Instruments and Sensory Evaluation WU Xiao, JIA Qian, CHEN Jingjia, CHEN Chao, XIE Fangming 2026, 32(5): 89-95.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.015 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (1005KB) ( )   To elucidate the intrinsic relationships between the eating quality of indica rice and its physicochemical composition and texture properties, evaluate the applicability of multi-instrument measurement methods in eating quality assessment, and establish an objective evaluation system, 107 indica rice varieties were used as test materials. The protein and amylose contents were determined using a rice taste meter. Additionally, the taste values and texture profiles (hardness, viscosity, balance, and springiness) of cooked rice were analyzed using a cooked rice taste meter and a hardness-viscosity analyzer. Using Huanghuazhan as the reference variety, sensory evaluation was conducted via the relative scoring method, and the correlation between instrumental measurements and sensory scores was systematically analyzed. The results indicated that the tested indica rice exhibited big variability in taste values, with varieties scoring above 70 accounting for 58.88%, suggesting abundant high-quality resources. Both protein and amylose contents showed highly significant negative correlations with taste value (r=-0.831 and -0.712, respectively), identifying them as key intrinsic factors affecting eating quality. Among texture indicators, viscosity exhibited the most prominent variation (coefficient of variation=44.81%). Hardness was highly significantly negatively correlated with taste value (r=-0.876), whereas viscosity, balance, and springiness showed highly significant positive correlations. The measurements from both taste analyzers demonstrated highly significant positive correlations with sensory scores, with correlation coefficients of 0.894 for the cooked rice taste meter and 0.850 for the rice taste meter. All indices from the hardness-viscosity analyzer also correlated significantly with sensory evaluation. This study demonstrates that instrumental methods can objectively and efficiently reflect the eating quality of indica rice and exhibit strong synergy with sensory evaluation. The multi-dimensional taste evaluation system based on “composition-texture-sensory” parameters provides reliable technical support for superior variety screening in indica rice breeding and quality control across the industrial chain.

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Regulation of Yield and Quality Traits by Indica Introgression in Japonica Rice in Cold Regions and Analysis of Key Functional Genes LYU Tan, MA Juntao, WANG Yongli, DENG Lingwei, LI Hongyu, ZHANG Guomin 2026, 32(5): 96-102.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.016 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (869KB) ( )   To address the breeding bottlenecks, specifically the prominent homogenization of japonica rice varieties, narrow genetic base, and the difficulty in synergistically improving yield and quality in Heilongjiang Province—this study utilized 676 japonica rice accessions from cold regions (comprising 485 germplasm resources and 191 major cultivars). Leveraging the RICE40 breeding chip and phenotypic identification data from four representative ecological sites (Wuchang, Minzhu, Jiamusi, and Heihe), we systematically investigated the regulatory effects of indica introgression on trait evolution, yield formation, and quality characteristics in cold region japonica rice. The results indicated a significant increasing trend in the proportion of indica ancestry in cold region japonica rice over successive breeding eras, with the major cultivar population exhibiting a significantly higher indicaproportion than the germplasm resource population. Indica introgression segments were unevenly distributed across all 12 rice chromosomes, with high-frequency introgressed segments predominantly enriched on chromosomes 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 12. Correlation analysis revealed that indica ancestry was significantly positively correlated with spikelet number per panicle, panicle weight, and plant height, effectively enhancing yield potential. However, it also led to a significant decrease in head milled rice rate and taste value, alongside a significant increase in grain protein content. Furthermore, 164 related functional genes were identified. Notably, superior indica genes for disease resistance (Pii/HIT7/pi5-1) and yield enhancement (GW8/OsSPL16) underwent strong artificial selection in the major cultivar population. The frequency of GW8/OsSPL16 in the major cultivated population (16.2%) was significantly higher than that in the germplasm resourse population (1.2%), whereas Pii/HIT7/pi5-1 maintained a stably high allele fequency of 19.0% in both populations. These findings provide crucial theoretical insights and core gene resources for broadening the genetic background of cold region japonica rice and advancing molecular precision design breeding via inter-subspecific hybridization.

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Practice and Optimization of Rice Variety Certification in Shandong Province Under the Framework of the New Seed Law ZHANG Juan, HAN Wenyu, ZHANG Zeming 2026, 32(5): 103-106.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.017 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (548KB) ( )   On March 1, 2022, the newly revised Seed Law of the People’s Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the “New Seed Law”) officially came into force. Alongside it, the concurrently revised Measures for the Approval of Main Crop Varieties systematically restructured the crop variety approval system, clarifying a reform orientation of “optimizing standards, simplifying procedures, strengthening supervision, and stimulating vitality.” Anchoring closely to the core requirements of the New Seed Law, this study takes the full-process practice of rice variety approval in Shandong Province from 2022 to 2024 as its empirical sample. From four dimensions—alignment of institutional systems, upgrading of testing systems, innovation of supervision mechanisms, and evaluation of practical effectiveness—it systematically analyzes the adjustment pathways and operational characteristics of provincial-level rice variety approval work. The findings reveal that Shandong Province has achieved precise alignment with the New Seed Law by revising local approval standards, weaving a diversified testing network, and establishing an end-to-end supervision framework. Meanwhile, it was also found that the current variety approval process still faces practical challenges, such as imperfection of the testing system for special types of varieties, the difficulty in supervising independent trials, and the need to enhance techincal support capabilities. Building on these insights, targeted optimization pathways are proposed, aiming to provide theoretical references and practical paradigms for the high-quality development of provincial crop variety approval work under the framework of the New Seed Law.

Varieties & Technology

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Analysis of Rice Varieties Approved in Fujian Province from 2016 to 2025 and Characteristics of Key Backbone Parents ZHU Yongsheng, ZHENG Feiyan, CAI Qiuhua, JIANG Jiahuan, LIU Feng, CHEN Liping, LI Qixiang, WEI Yidong, ZHAN Shengwei, XIE Huaan, ZHENG Changlin, ZHANG Jianfu 2026, 32(5): 107-112.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.018 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (706KB) ( )   This study systematically analyzed the number and main agronomic traits of rice varieties approved in Fujian Province from 2016 to 2025, aiming to screen representative parents, clarify their genetic backgrounds and key traits of the derived varieties, evaluate their contributions to improving the breeding level in Fujian, and discuss current breeding directions and variety characteristics. Statistics show that a total of 455 rice varieties were approved in Fujian during 2016-2025. Among them, 186 varieties were developed from the 10 sterile lines and restorer lines. These core parents exhibited stable genotypes and rich genetic diversity. In terms of breeding achievements, rice varieties developed in Fujian over the past decade have made remarkable progress in grain quality while maintaining both high yield and disease resistance. In 2025, the number of approved varieties meeting the national first-class quality standard (issued by the Ministry) reached 16, accounting for 45.7% of the total approved varieties that year, marking a major breakthrough in high-quality rice breeding. In addition, over the past five years, a batch of new-generation varieties with excellent comprehensive traits and strong alignment with production needs has been developed in Fujian. According to statistics, 38 varieties have been listed as main or recommended planting varieties in Fujian’s grain production, accounting for 53.5% of the currently widely used varieties. The promotion and application of these varieties have provided strong support for ensuring the sustainable development of Fujian’s grain industry.

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Study on the Evaluation and Rapid Screening Technology of Eating Quality in South China Rice Core Germplasm JIN Zhixing, ZHOU Shaoxiong, YU Keyong, XU Minghao, WANG Yanghua, ZHANG Yijun, FENG Tian, LU Jiahao, ZHOU Shaochuan 2026, 32(5): 113-117.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.019 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (632KB) ( )   To address the strong subjectivity and low efficiency of traditional sensory evaluation, this study established a standardized and efficient system for the rapid identification of rice eating quality, aiming to facilitate the early screening of elite breeding materials and accelerate high-quality rice breeding in South China. A total of 212 accessions of South China high-quality rice core germplasm and their derived lines were employed as experimental materials. By integrating taste analyzer quantification, artificial sensory evaluation, and NMR-based fatty acid profiling, we validated the efficacy of the taste analyzer in early-stage screening and elucidated the regulatory mechanisms of fatty acids on eating quality. Results showed a highly significant positive correlation between taste analyzer scores and sensory scores, confirming that the analyzer can effectively replace manual evaluation for large-scale screening. The tested germplasm exhibited rich genetic variation and stable expression of eating quality traits. Six elite lines with synergistic improvements in both eating quality and agronomic traits were successfully screened. Furthermore, the regulatory effect of fatty acids on eating quality displayed distinct genotypic specificity, supporting their use as auxiliary selection indicators. The combined technology of taste analysis and NMR detection significantly improves screening efficiency and shortens the breeding cycle. This study provides reliable technical support and core germplasm resources for the precise identification and targeted molecular breeding of high-quality rice in South China.

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Breeding and Application of High Combining Ability and Blast-Resistant Rice Restorer Line Huahui 5438 XIE Zhimei, HU Xiaochun, ZENG Guoying, CHEN Pengcheng, YANG Dingzhao, ZHANG Xuanwen, QIN Peng, YANG Yuanzhu 2026, 32(5): 118-122.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.020 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (475KB) ( )   Huahui 5438 is an indica rice restorer line developed in 2011 through pedigree breeding and molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS). It was derived from a complex cross involving the blast-resistant parent Huazhan (female), the resistant resource Gumei 4 (male), and the heat-tolerant, lodging-resistant, large-panicle restorer line R608. The line exhibits high combining ability, strong restorer capability, and moderate resistance to rice blast. Whole-genome resequencing analysis revealed that Huahui 5438 contains approximately 10.47% japonica ancestry and 0.35% early-season indica ancestry, providing valuable genetic material for exploiting both indica-japonica and early-late ecotype heterosis. Following the principle of “matching dominant populations, complementing resistance genes, and coordinating quality genes,” Huahui 5438 was used as a male parent to develop a series hybrid rice combinations characterized by high yield, disease resistance, superior grain quality, lodging resistance, and wide adaptability. Among them, 11 varieties have been approved by national or provincial authorities. This paper systematically reviews the breeding process, agronomic and genetic characteristics, and utilization performance of Huahui 5438, highlighting the pivotal role of molecular breeding in the development of elite restorer lines and hybrid rice varieties.

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Effects of Sowing Rate and Sowing Method on Seedling Quality and Mechanical Transplanting Characteristics of Rice Male Sterile Line CAO Zhenrui, FENG Yandong, CHEN Derui, ZHAN Liwei, CHEN Huizhe, ZHANG Yuping, ZHANG Yikai, WANG Yaliang, WANG Zhigang, XU Yiwen, NIE Lixiao, XIANG Jing 2026, 32(5): 123-129.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.021 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (910KB) ( )   To clarify the effects of sowing rate and sowing method on the seedling quality, machine transplanting quality, and seed production yield of hybrid rice male sterile lines under mechanical transplanting, and to provide a theoretical basis for high-quality seedling raising and transplanting techniques for hybrid rice male sterile lines, this study used indica-type male sterile line Huazhe 2A and japonica-type male sterile line Zhejing 7A as experimental materials. Three sowing rates (20 g/tray, 30 g/tray, and 40 g/tray) and two sowing methods(broadcast sowing and precision row sowing) were set to systematically investigate their comprehensive effects on seedling morphological indices, physiological characteristics, mat formation, machine transplanting quality, and seed production yield of the male sterile lines. The results showed that low sowing rates were conducive to cultivating robust seedlings, promoting aboveground and root growth as well as dry matter accumulation, thereby significantly improving seedling quality. Specifically, compared with the 40 g/tray treatment, the seedling compactness of the 20 g/tray treatment increased by 31.61% (Zhegeng 7A) and 3.32% (Huazhe 2A), while the robust seedling index increased by 94.34% (Zhegeng 7A) and 75.48% (Huazhe 2A). Under the same sowing rate, precision row sowing significantly improved seedling quality compared with broadcast sowing, promoted the accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium nutrients, and non-structural carbohydrates; it also significantly enhanced root binding force, reduced the missing seedling rate to below 5% at the 40 g/tray sowing rate, and greatly improved machine transplanting uniformity (78.83% for Zhegeng 7A and 79.09% for Huazhe 2A). In addition, the effective panicle number and seed setting rate of the precision row sowing treatment were significantly higher, with seed production yields of the two combinations increasing by 14.97% and 19.15%, respectively, compared with broadcast sowing.

Cultural Column

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Practical Research and Pathway Exploration on Integrating Rice Cultivation Culture into Labor Education: A Case Study of Primary and Secondary Schools in Zhejiang Province LIU Jingdi, LI Zeyuan 2026, 32(5): 130-134.  DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-8082.2026.05.022 Abstract ( )   HTML ( )   PDF (618KB) ( )   As an important component of China's traditional farming culture, rice cultivation culture holds unique practical value and educational significance in primary and secondary school labor education. Zhejiang Province has established a preliminary educational foundation that includes curriculum content, campus paddy fields and other practical venues, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. However, there are still prominent issues such as fragmented curriculum systems, insufficient professional capacity among teachers, and lack of sustainability in venue operation. Integrating rice cultivation culture into labor education can promote the curricular integration of this cultural resource through interdisciplinary thematic learning, based on existing textbook content, thus achieving a deep combination of knowledge and practice. Agricultural science bases can be developed into continuous labor learning spaces that cover the entire rice growth cycle, guiding students to take on multiple roles at different stages of crop development, and fostering core competencies through immersive practice. At the same time, by building a stable collaborative education network, integrating resources from various parties, and consolidating educational synergy, it is possible to provide professional support and sustainable guarantees for the orderly advancement of rice cultivation culture education.