3rd Edition Of Plant Science and Molecular Biology World Conference 2026

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa) is a staple crop with high consumption in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria is a major producer, but demand outpaces supply due to population growth and changing dietary preferences. Lowland rice systems dominate (50–54.5% of cultivated area), with irrigated and upland systems making up the rest. Drought, heat, and erratic rainfall reduce yields. Continuous flooding increases methane emissions. Anaerobic systems (flooded lowlands) yield more but consume more water. Aerobic systems (upland, drained soils) are more water-efficient but lower yielding. Alternate wetting and drying improves water efficiency and reduces emissions. Ratooning (regrowth after harvest) provides a second crop, lowering costs. Ten rice breeding lines tested under aerobic and anaerobic conditions (2023–2025). Traits measured: shoot/root length, plant weight, tillers, grain yield, and ratooned yield. Statistical models (AMMI, GGE biplot) used to analyze genotype × environment interactions. Genotype DS34 identified as stable and high-yielding across environments. Grain yield varied significantly across genotypes and environments. Lowland (anaerobic) conditions generally produced higher yields and more tillers. Aerobic conditions favored deeper roots but fewer tillers. Climate stress (heat, drought) reduced yields, especially under aerobic conditions. DS34, CHK1, and CHK2 showed strong stability and adaptability