Seed Discoloration in Rice: A Threat to Rice Cultivation in India

Author: Mohammad Said, Salman Ahmad and Saba Siddiqui

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Abstract

Several biotic and abiotic factors are responsible for seed discoloration in paddy (Oryza sativa L.). Among the biotic factors, several fungal pathogens play important role in producing the lusture less seeds with poor quality and such seeds are not preferred by the farming community. Some fungi responsible for discoloration in rice which produces toxins and lower down the seed as well as grain quality making unfit for human and cattle consumption. Paddy grain discoloration is an emerging threat which degrades the grain texture and quality. In the case of unpredictable climatic conditions across different ecological zones, severity of this disease also ranges from minor to major. Grain discoloration affects the grain morphology (size and shape of the grain) and significantly lower down the crop yield. Grain discoloration also affects the drying, shelling, milling and processing of the rice due to heavy weight loss. This malady causes weight loss in paddy grain that directly affects the post-harvest processing of the rice seeds and cooking quality. Now a days, Seed discoloration again proved to be a major recurring issue in the Indian coastal regions haltering the levels of desired grain production and also major challenge is to control the disease with minimal loss. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, causes, symptoms and management of rice discoloration disease. Strategies such as better utilization of genetic resources, precise pathogen identification and improved agricultural practices should be developed and suggested to help cope up against this devastating problem.

Keywords

Seed discoloration, Rice, Integrated management, Seed borne disease, pathogen

Conclusion

Looking at the losses caused by seed discoloration in rice and the pathogens associated with them, the management strategies should be designed by improving the cropping practices at the farmer’s level. Utilization of the genetic resources of rice (such as resistant varieties) and management of the pathogens using integrated and advanced approach like bio-intensive practices, bio fungicides and new generation formulations should be adopted which will minimize the losses caused by seed discoloration.

References

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How to cite this article

Mohammad Said, Salman Ahmad and Saba Siddiqui (2023). Seed Discoloration in Rice: A Threat to Rice Cultivation in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 136-143.