May 17, 2024 - 00:15
By manilatimes.net

PhilRice: Use heat-tolerant varieties

THE Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) under the Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers to plant heat-tolerant varieties that can yield up to 7 tons per hectare (tons/ha) or above the national average of around 4 tons/ha.

«This is in preparation for the projected temperature increases,» DA-PhilRice said, urging farmers to test the adaptability of these rice varieties to withstand high temperatures in their localities.

Career scientist Norvie Manigbas of PhilRice said that data spanning 50 years suggests a temperature increase of 1–2 degrees Celsius in the future, highlighting the need to utilize National Seed Industry Council (NISC) Rc 600 and Rc 602 to the fullest as these varieties can endure temperatures up to 38 C. Both heat-tolerant rice varieties were developed by PhilRice.

The Philippine Rice Research Institute has seed varieties that can thrive under high-temperature conditions. PHILRICE PHOTO

Manigbas said NISC Rc 600 and Rc 602, the country's first high-temperature-tolerant rice seeds, display exceptional traits crucial for resilience in high-temperature conditions.

«These can withstand temperatures up to 37 C and even up to 38 C in controlled environments like glasshouses,» he said.

Manigbas explained that the NSIC Rc 600 under heat stress yields 6.3 tons/ha and, in normal conditions, between 6.5 and 7 tons/ha. This rice variety matures in 110 days and exhibits resistance to both deadhearts and whiteheads.

On the other hand, he said NSIC Rc 602 yields 6.2 tons/ha, matures in 109 days and shows resistance to a whitehead.

«These varieties demonstrate intermediate resistance to blast, bacterial leaf blight, sheath blight, brown planthopper and green leafhopper,» Manigbas said.

The DA-PhilRice is encouraging farmers who are interested in testing the varieties to inquire and access them through PhilRice's Business Development Division.

Manigbas also explained that heat stress during the vegetative phase can cause leaf discoloration and accelerated growth, potentially reducing the yield potential of heat-sensitive rice varieties.

«Temperatures exceeding 35 C during the reproductive stage can lead to yield