Australian wild rice characterisation

This project funded a PhD student for three years to study the genetics of Australian wild rice. The research has confirmed that native Australian rice populations are key genetic resources for rice globally. Rice breeders targeting varieties for production in areas where rice is a native plant in northern Australia will benefit from access to genetic resources adapted to the local environment including local rice diseases. The development of a wild rice industry in northern Australia will also be facilitated. Selected wild rice populations should be conserved as a genetic resource by controlling weeds and other threats to these populations.