Global warming could hit rice

American scientists are worried that changes in the <<greenhouse effect>> are affecting the earth's climatic pattern and could cause drought and a rise In the ocean level in the next decade. Ultraviolet exposure decreases photosynthesis (carbohydrate production) and water-use efficiency in rice - the world's most important crop.

Dr Alan Teramura of the University of Maryland, who recently visited IRRI (the International Rice Research Institute) in the Philippines, said that the methane emission from rice paddies contributes to this global warming, for a molecule of methane is about 10,000 more effective in enhancing the greenhouse effect as a molecule of C02. An estimated 17% of the world's methane production comes from paddy fields.

Dr Thomas Coohill, President of the American Society of Phytobiology, predicted that the possible decrease in rice crop yields because of high temperatures and UV radiation could lead to starvation in many parts of the world dependent on the crop. Rice in the future may therefore have to thrive in deep water and tolerate salinity.

For more details, contact: IRRI PO Box 933 Manila PHILIPPINES