Rht genes

Rht genes are specific genes in wheat that control plant height by influencing growth regulators called gibberellins. Variations in these genes can produce shorter, sturdier plants that are less likely to fall over ("lodge") under heavy grain loads or wind, improving overall yield. The most common Rht genes, like Rht-B1 and Rht-D1, were important in developing "semi-dwarf" wheat varieties during the Green Revolution, which helped increase food production by making plants more resilient and easier to harvest. These genes exhibit different mutations that reduce plant height without compromising grain quality.