Induced Mutagenesis for Enhancing Weed Resistance in Rice Seedlings Using Gamma Rays

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple crops worldwide, particularly in Asia, where it supplies the majority of daily calories for millions of people. However, rice production is heavily affected by weeds, which compete with crops for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Farmers often rely on herbicides for weed control, but excessive use of these chemicals can harm the environment, degrade soil quality, and leave harmful residues on food. This highlights the need for alternative approaches to weed management that are both effective and sustainable.

Induced mutagenesis, specifically through gamma ray irradiation, has been identified as a promising tool in crop improvement. Gamma rays can induce beneficial mutations at the DNA level, potentially improving plant traits such as stress tolerance and resistance to weed competition. This study aims to evaluate the effects of varying gamma ray dosages on rice seedlings to determine their potential for enhanced weed resistance.

Using the post-test-only control group design, rice seeds will be subjected to irradiation at dosages of 250 Gy and 300 Gy, with a non-irradiated control group for comparison. The growth of the seedlings will be observed and measured to identify variations in root and shoot development.

If successful, this research may contribute to reducing dependence on herbicides, lowering production costs, and promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. The findings may also serve as a reference for future studies exploring plant improvement through induced mutagenesis.

• Innovation/Product Video (Public):
• Category (Public): Star Innovators (Secondary and primary school students)
• Sub-Category (Public): Science & Technology
• Type of Innovation (Public): INNOVATION IDEA (POSTER PRESENTATION) (For innovators who have ideas but not yet any product)
• Country List (Public): Philippines
• Name of Group Leader/ Individual Innovator (Public): Marcus Juris Aldave
• Institution of Group Leader/ Individual Innovator (Public): Tayug National High School
• Name of Members (1): Margareth Joy Adloc
• Institution of Members (1): Tayug National High School
• Name of Members (2): John Romer Perez
• Institution of Members (2): Tayug National High School
• Name of Members (3): Gabriel Nathan Somera
• Institution of Members (3): Tayug National High School
• Name of Members (4): Justin John Cabanayan
• Institution of Members (4): Tayug National High School