Rice Genome Project

The Rice Genome Project was an international scientific effort to map and sequence the entire genome of rice, a staple food for over half the world's population. Launched in the late 1990s, it aimed to understand the genetic makeup of rice to improve its yield, nutrition, and resistance to diseases and environmental stresses. By decoding its DNA, researchers can develop better rice varieties that are more resilient and productive, ultimately contributing to global food security and improving agricultural practices. The project's findings are also useful for studying other plants and advancing agricultural biotechnology.