Scientists to exchange findings on flood-resistant crops at IRRI conference

Crop scientists from 29 countries are meeting at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Los Banos, Laguna beginning Saturday for a conference of the International Society for Plant Anaerobiosis (ISPA).

The conference, which will run until October 11, is an opportunity for more than 100 scientists to trade findings on the development of flood-resistant crops.

Vast-rice growing regions in India, Bangladesh and even the Philippines are submerged during the rainy season, causing production losses.

Over the years, the IRRI has been producing flood resistant varieties that can be used in such conditions.

Among the flood-resistant varieties it has developed is the Submarino rice – a variety that can survive for two weeks under water.

"These major scientific discoveries, along with several others, have opened up a whole new world of exciting possibilities for developing flood-proof crops, which is increasingly important as flooding becomes more frequent and more severe," said the IRRI.

"The conference is open to anyone interested in learning the latest research on adaptation to flooding and on how science affects agriculture and livelihoods. Scientists, university professors, students, and postgraduate fellows will be attending the conference," the institute added.

Aside from the program proper, the conference will include a field tour at IRRI.

IRRI is part of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIR) consortium, a group of international research institutions dedicated to crop science.

The institute develops new rice varieties and rice crop management techniques that improve yield and quality of produce. — DVM, GMA News