New study reveals big panicle rice boosts yield with more photosynthesis
Big panicle rice with super-high yield produces more grains by increasing seed-setting on secondary branches and transferring more nutrients to the panicle. It accumulates more dry matter early on and has a longer leaf lifespan, leading to a higher Leaf Area Index (LAI) at heading-stage. This means the plant can capture more sunlight for photosynthesis, resulting in a longer period of leaf growth and higher overall productivity.