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Tesfamichael (Tesfa) Kebrom, a TAMU graduate student working with Lee Tarpley, is using several approaches to understand the physiological bases of inconsistent rice ratoon stand establishment and growth. Among these is consideration of specific environmental factors. Large amounts of organic matter in the field water can result from algae accumulation, shedding of lower leaves, and straw left in the field after main-crop harvest. When this organic matter is degraded under low-oxygen conditions, such as are often present in flooded rice fields, plant growth-inhibiting compounds can be released. |
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The effects of various combinations of straw, activated charcoal (to adsorb specific kinds of compounds released from the straw) and water aeration upon rice plant growth and development are being examined. The results from this study, other “environmental factor” studies, and characterizations of the physiology of rice ratoon tiller induction and elongation and ratoon plant growth will be used to propose specific improvements to management, and possibly varietal improvement. |
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