Scientists simulated how sunlight is distributed in rice plants with different types of leaves. By using a new method to measure leaf area, they found that some rice plants were better at using sunlight for photosynthesis than others. Plants with rolled leaves had lower sunlight use, while those with normal leaves were more efficient. One type of rice had the best balance of sunlight use in its canopy. The optimal amount of rolled leaves for all types of rice was between 0.08 and 0.12.