RIRDC Completed Projects in 2000-2001 & Research in Progress as at June 2001

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To Rice Completed Projects

3.4 Rice - Research in Progress
Project No	Project Title	Researcher	Phone	Organisation

Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance

ANU-42A	Transgenic glasshouse facilities for transgenomic rice project	Prof. Murray Badger	(02) 6249 3741	Australian National University
CMB-2A	Rice transgenomics project	Dr. Andrzej Kilian	(02) 6246 4519	Center for the Application of Molecular Biology to International Agriculture (CAMBIA)
DAN-167A	Rice improvement	Mr. Russell Reinke	(02) 6951 2516	NSW Agriculture
DAN-183A	Rice grain quality 3	Dr. Melissa Fitzgerald	(02) 6951 2656	NSW Agriculture
RRA-3A	Alternative methods and cultural practices for establishing seed and nutritional plots	Mr. Russell Ford	(03) 5886 1391	Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd
UNS-12A	Flavour and texture qualities of new Australian fragrant rice cultivars	A/Prof. Michael Wootton	(02) 9385 4369	University of New South Wales
USC-4A	Development and application of marker assisted selection in the rice improvement program	Prof. Robert Henry	(02) 6620 3010	Southern Cross University

Agronomy/crop physiology

DAN-160A

Rice physiology: Maximising rice yields beyond 2000

Mr. Robert L Williams

(02) 6951 2679

NSW Agriculture

Crop nutrition

DAN-185A

NIR for improved fertilizer predictions II

Mr. John Oliver

(02) 6938 1816

NSW Agriculture

Crop protection

AGR-6A	Rotational weed control practices for rice (continuation of AGR-3A)	Mr. Malcolm Taylor	(03) 5872 2892	Agropraisals Pty Ltd
DAN-184A	Improving bloodworm, snail and earthworm control in rice	Dr. Mark Stevens	(02) 6951 2611	NSW Agriculture
UCS-20A	Development of integrated weed management strategies for the rice weed Cyperus difformis and Alisma plantago-aquatica	Prof. Jim Pratley	(02) 6933 2864	Charles Sturt University
UCS-26A	Integrated management of Alismataceae weeds to reduce herbicide resistance	Dr. Farzad Jahromi	(02) 6933 2285	Charles Sturt University
UCS-28A	Influence of species on efficiency of barnyard grass control	Professor Jim Pratley	(02) 6933 2864	Charles Sturt University

Sustainable farming systems

CSL-13A	Effect of rice stubble burning versus retention on soil health	Mr. Clive Kirkby	(02) 6960 1596	CSIRO Land and Water
UCA-6A	Sustainable management of on-farm biodiversity in the rice growing industry: vertebrate wildlife resources	Dr. William Osborne	(02) 6201 5377	University of Canberra

Technology transfer and communications

DAN-162A	Better extension programs for improved rice yields	Mr. Warwick Clampett	(02) 6960 1317	NSW Agriculture
IRE-3A	Technology transfer for a more productive and sustainable rice farming system	Mr. Nick Hutchins	(02) 6960 1550	Irrigation Research and Extension Committee
IRE-5A	Production of quality rice in south eastern Australia	Ms Lucy Kealey	(02) 6964 5232	Irrigation Research & Extension Committee

Varietal improvement & pure seeds maintenance
 

Project Title	Transgenic glasshouse facilities for transgenomic rice project
RIRDC Project No.:	ANU-42A
Start Date:	01/05/00
Finish Date:	30/06/04
Researcher:	Prof. Murray Badger
Organisation:	Australian National University Research School of Biological Sciences PO Box 475 CANBERRA CITY ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6249 3741
Fax:	(02) 6249 5075
Email:	murray.badger@anu.edu.au
Objectives	Expected outcomes of the project include: For Rice Transgenic Glasshouse Facility (RTGH) Project · A transgenic glasshouse facility and research infrastructure for the support of rice biotechnology in Australia · A broader academic focus on rice biotechnology in Australia, through interaction of a range of rice related projects conducted at ANU and other places with the RTGF. This project is a companion to the Rice Trangenomics Program (RTP) project application from CAMBIA. The outcomes of this companion program are: · A mutant population for which the rice genome has been extensively tagged. · A population of rice lines with novel traits useful for breeding and biotechnology. · Sequences/physical locations of developmentally regulated genes active in specific tissues and/or cell types. · Sequences/physical locations of genes identified via Loss-of-Function and Gain-of-Function mutations. · Lines with spatially and temporally defined patterns of transcriptional activator expression. · Better understanding of rice/plant biology to be used for rice genetic improvement.
Current Progress	Good progress has been made on the establishment of transgenic glasshouse facilities to enable the growth and analysis of transgenic rice lines produced by the Transgenic Rice Project. 1. A contract has been established for the construction of a new 250 m2 Transgenic Glasshouse Facility on the ANU campus. This Facility will be a modern transgenic glasshouse with the capability of growing rice throughout the year. Associated with the growth facility will be laboratory space and facilities to assist with the analysis of plants and the disposal of transgenic waste. The glasshouse is due to be completed and functioning by the end of August 2001. 2. The 180 m2 glasshouse at the ANU Weston Creek campus has been functioning for the past year and has already produced seed from the first large-scale population of transgenic rice. This glasshouse is now operating in a manner where it can be used for year-round production of transgenic rice, and will be used in conjunction with the new glasshouse to provide over 400 m2 of transgenic rice growth space to support the project. 3. The Management Committee or the project, consisting of ANU, CAMBIA, RIRDC and rice growers representatives, has been established and has met once and has been in contact via email and correspondence.

Project Title	Rice transgenomics project
RIRDC Project No.:	CMB-2A
Start Date:	01/03/00
Finish Date:	28/02/05
Researcher:	Dr. Andrzej Kilian
Organisation:	Center for the Application of Molecular Biology to International Agriculture (CAMBIA) GPO Box 3200 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6246 4519
Fax:	(02) 6246 5303
Email:	a.kilian@cambia.org.au
Objectives	Expected outcomes of the project include: · A mutant population for which the rice genome has been extensively tagged · A population of rice lines with noval traits useful for breeding and biotechnology · Sequences/physical locations of developmentally regulated genes active in specific tissues and /or cell types · Sequences/physical locations of genes identifies via Loss-of-Function and Gain-of-Function mutations · Lines with spatially and temporally defined patterns of transcriptional activator expression · Better understanding of rice/plant biology to be used for rice genetic improvements
Current Progress	During the last year major project activities have been in the generation and analysis of a population of Transcriptional Activator Facilitated Enhancer Trap (TAFET) lines. A total of 4.5 thousand TAFET lines were generated with GUS, GUSPlus and EGFP reporter genes and about one thousand analysed for reporter gene expression. A large variety of reporter gene expression patterns were identified and catalogued. Around one thousand TAFET lines were analysed for transgene copy number and an average of 2 copies per genome were detected using the Southern blot method. Progenies of nearly 600 TAFET lines were planted in the glasshouse and several thousand transgenic plants screened for morphological and physiological changes. Families with chlorophyll deficiencies, early flowering plants, dwarfs, male and female sterility, panicle development mutations and several other phenotypic changes were identified. Most of the families in the glasshouse experiments were analysed for reporter gene expression in order to validate expression patterns observed in the T0 generation. In general, good stability of reporter expression patterns has been observed. In order to improve Freedom to Operate with Transgenomic technology in the future, a project aiming at the development of novel transactivators has been initiated.

Project Title	Rice improvement
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-167A
Start Date:	01/07/98
Finish Date:	30/06/03
Researcher:	Mr. Russell Reinke
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Yanco Agricultural Institute PMB YANCO NSW 2703
Phone:	(02) 6951 2516
Fax:	(02) 6955 7580
Email:	Russell.Reinke@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	This project has two main thrusts. The first is the development of improved cultivars for the NSW Rice Industry, and the second is the provision and maintenance of genetically pure seed of all current and potential cultivars. Major outcomes will be the production of new and improved varieties of various quality classes, including a medium grain with shorter growth duration, long grain, fragrant and arborio types and possible release of other cultivars meeting appropriate yield and quality criteria. Other outcomes will include increased efficiency of cultivar development through the incorporation of tightly focused selection strategies for seedling vigour, cold tolerance, reduced stress cracking in grain and freedom from chalk. These improvements will be included as the results of associated research programs are made available from Rice CRC and other projects. Other major outcomes will be the provision of detailed performance data or potential new cultivars in all rice growing area.
Current Progress	Yield testing during the 2000/2001 rice season focused on the performance of a range of medium-grain lines as possible replacements for the current medium-grain, Amaroo. The advanced breeding lines tested this season encompass a range of grain sizes, and may prove more suitable for specific export markets. They are identified as YRM54, YRM49 and YRM63. Middle Eastern markets favour larger medium-grain rices than the current commercial cultivars, Amaroo and Namaga. Preliminary yield results indicate that each of the advanced breeding lines has equivalent or better yield potential than Amaroo, despite their growth duration being 1-2 weeks shorter than Amaroo. Approximately 50 tonnes of seed of YRM63 was produced this season, and release is possible at the Rice Field Days in March 2002. Two long-grain lines, YRL118 and YRL123, demonstrated high yield potential in comparison with the commercial long-grain variety Langi. Of the lines that entered district testing for the first time, three medium-grains and four long-grains had high yield potential, however further development is dependent on detailed grain quality analysis.  This season, the program has incorporated the routine use of molecular markers. A micro-satellite marker for amylose content (which affects cooked grain texture) has been successfully integrated into the quality testing program, and will increase the speed and accuracy with which amylose can be determined. Finally, the rice improvement program was successfully advanced by one generation and pure seed produced for all commercial cultivars.

Project Title	Rice grain quality 3
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-183A
Start Date:	01/01/00
Finish Date:	31/12/04
Researcher:	Dr. Melissa Fitzgerald
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Private Mail Bag YANCO NSW 2703
Phone:	(02) 6951 2656
Fax:	(02) 6951 2719
Email:	melissa.fitzgerald@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	The project has two main goals. The first is to improve our capacity to evaluate the quality of cross-bred lines in the breeding program, and the second is to understand the processes that operate in the developing plant that influence the expression of quality attributes. The project will focus on understanding chalk and texture in all classes of rice, and grain extension in basmati style rices. Major outcomes will be (i) to ensure that new varieties developed by the breeding program meet specific quality criteria for different markets, and (ii) information that will assist breeders to make informed selections, and will enable us or associated projects to develop molecular marker technology to allow us to identify those lines rapidly and reliably that have desirable quality.
Current Progress	In the past 6 months, cereal chemistry has embraced molecular marker technology! We have completed amylose measurements by the traditional method for about 1200 crossbred lines, and for the remaining 500, we are using a microsatellite marker to determine both the amylose content and the amylose gene. The time saved by determining amylose content by markers will allow us to measure the texture of rice. We have received the markers for semi-dwarfism and fragrance that were identified by Southern Cross University. The semi-dwarism marker works well in our hands, but we need to fine-tune our methods to succeed with the fragrance marker. Plants have been grown and seed harvested for our ongoing research into the problem of chalk and high temperatures. High temperature during grain filling significantly affected the amount of chalk in the grains, and the size of the chalky area, the amount and structure of amylose, and the interactions between proteins and amylose. Research will continue to identify the cause of chalk, and other effects of high temperature. We have made progress in interpreting data on the way starches, proteins and lipids interact during cooking. We are currently preparing three papers to submit to scientific journals.

Project Title	Alternative methods and cultural practices for establishing seed and nutritional plots
RIRDC Project No.:	RRA-3A
Start Date:	01/07/00
Finish Date:	31/12/03
Researcher:	Mr. Russell Ford
Organisation:	Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd "Old Coree" RMB 72 JERILDERIE NSW 2716
Phone:	(03) 5886 1391
Fax:	(03) 5886 1695
Email:	rrapl@bigpond.com.au
Objectives	To develop a plot seeder which provides precision seed and fertiliser placement for improved rice crop establishment. It is envisaged to trial both sod seeding (direct drill) and combine seeding techniques with many new sowing attachments that are available today.
Current Progress	After consultation from Agriculture NSW technicians and plant breeders as well as input from other researchers who use plot seeders, a design was agreed upon and an experienced engineer was selected for construction. The size of the plot seeder is slightly wider than the average to allow for use with wider plot harvesting equipment. This additional size also allows for the variations in size of the seeding equipment to be tested in this project. Four tool bars of varying size have been constructed to fit under the seeder with an easy to use and safe interchange system. These tool bars will carry the various seeding attachments according to size, thus reducing the need to change individual attachments. The plot seeder itself is of twin cone design with a manual trip mechanism. The gearing for distance is controlled via a "zeromax" gearbox, giving accurate control for plot length. Initial trials and calibrations are being conducted during the May/June period to gain information on how each attachment will perform. There have been some problems in setting up the attachments due to their variation in design and height. The main trial will begin in September/October 2001 where each of the attachments and the plot seeder will be assessed for their ability to improve seedling establishment in drill and combine sowing cultures of rice.

Project Title	Flavour and texture qualities of new Australian fragrant rice cultivars
RIRDC Project No.:	UNS-12A
Start Date:	01/02/97
Finish Date:	28/02/02
Researcher:	A/Prof. Michael Wootton
Organisation:	University of New South Wales Dept of Food Science and Technology SYDNEY NSW 2052
Phone:	(02) 9385 4369
Fax:	(02) 9385 5931
Email:	m.wootton@unsw.edu.au
Objectives	· Identification of the chemical entities responsible for aroma of new Australian fragrant rice varieties of the Basmati type. · Examination of the impact of storage on the flavour volatiles and texture of the Australian Basmati rice. · Definition of appropriate storage times and conditions for optimum Basmati rice quality in terms of eating quality. · Determination of the role of starch, and changes to it during storage, on acceptability of Basmati rice.
Current Progress	Sensory/analytical nexus re fragrance Analysis of sensory data collected regarding perception of fragrant rice vs non-fragrant rice flavour from a consumer sample of about 200 people of differing ages and cultural backgrounds is complete. A large consumer panel of various ages, gender and cultural background participated in a series of triangle tests to determine if consumers could distinguish between the aroma of Australian fragrant and non-fragrant rice, and the aroma of Australian and imported fragrant rice. This group could, as a whole, distinguish between Australian fragrant and non-fragrant rice and between Australian and imported fragrant rices based on aroma. Age, gender and cultural background affected the ability to discriminate between Australian fragrant and non-fragrant rice. In addition, descriptions of the aromas by participants implied that the aroma of Australian fragrant rice was preferable to that of both imported fragrant rice and Australian non-fragrant rice. The concentrations of significant aroma volatiles were linked to aroma descriptions of the rices. The results are encouraging for the acceptance and competitiveness of Australian fragrant rice in domestic and international markets. Field and glasshouse trials nitrogen fertilisation Two fragrant rice cultivars, the commercial Jasmine variety, Kyeema and the YRF 207 Jasmine breeding line, and two non-fragrant rice cultivars (Millin and L203) were grown under normal and low nitrogen fertiliser application levels. Rice plant samples were taken at the stages of tillering, panicle initiation, flowering and maturity; and mature rice grain was harvested from these plants. These samples were analysed for their volatile aroma compounds using simultaneous distillation extraction. The response of increased level of 2-acetyl-1-pyrolline in plant tissues, but not rice grain, at higher nitrogen application rates for the fragrant varieties was again observed for fragrant, but not non-fragrant rice plants. Differences between samples were found depending on variety, plant growth stage and nitrogen fertilisation level. These results confirm findings from previous seasons. This finding has confirmed the potential of glass house trials at high nitrogen application levels as an early generation test for fragrance. These experiments will commence early in the new year, based on  protocols and facilities for glass house trials established at the Kensington campus of the University of New South Wales.  Comparative data Previous work has shown that 2-acetyl-1-pyrolline (2-AP), the indicative component for fragrance in rice can be detected in the green tissue of very young rice plants. This has great significance for early screening in rice breeding programs. The use of solid phase micro-extraction (SPME) techniques, using pandan leaves as a plant tissue matrix containing 2-AP, for isolating volatile components from the tissue of young rice plants has been developed. During this work five different SPME fibres have been developed. Four of these gave poor or nil recovery of 2-AP however, the fifth (PDMS-DVB-CARBOXIN) has performed far better and this fibre will be evaluated with rice plant tissue. There is no reason to expect that this approach is not amenable to collection of volatiles in the field and for glass house studies. The method will reduce the time and simplify the procedure for rice volatile collection and analysis, expediting the objective selection of fragrance traits in breeding programs.

Project Title	Development and application of marker assisted selection in the rice improvement program
RIRDC Project No.:	USC-4A
Start Date:	1/01/00
Finish Date:	31/12/02
Researcher:	Prof. Robert Henry
Organisation:	Southern Cross University Centre for Plant Conservation Genetics Faculty of Resource Science and Management PO Box 157 LISMORE NSW 2480
Phone:	(02) 6620 3010
Fax:	(02) 6622 2080
Email:	rhenry@scu.edu.au
Objectives	Marker techniques will be developed for application in the rice breeding program so that screening of markers can be conducted at Yanco. Priority will be given to markers for markers for traits difficult to screen in conventional breeding. (Gelatinisation temperature and Blast resistance). Analysis of how markers could best be integrated into the breeding program will be conducted. For example, markers may be best used for specific exercises, ie. back crossing. Molecular analysis will help to ensure that released varieties are genetically uniform.
Current Progress	A report on "The application of molecular markers to rice improvement in Australia" was presented to the rice industry at the August 2000 RIRDC R & D Seminar at Leeton. At least three potential new molecular markers for fragrance have been identified. These markers can distinguish between Doongara and YRF 203. This was not possible with previously identified markers. Identification of these markers was facilitated through use of the Monsanto rice sequence information, both the publicly available SSR database and the restricted access sequence information. Confirmation of linkage of the markers with the fragrance gene is under way. Imported rice lines carrying resistance to blast, sheath blight and bacterial blight are being processed through quarantine. Most of the resistance genes these lines carry have published associated PCR based molecular markers. If polymorphism is confirmed between imported resistant lines and local susceptible varieties these markers can be used to track the introduction of disease resistance into local varieties. Two varieties thought to have two loci contributing to the fragrance character have also been introduced. They will be tested to determine if the intensity of fragrance can be enhanced using alleles at this new loci. Some markers for fragrance and semi-dwarf have been sent to the rice breeding team at Yanco, and their application is currently under development.

Agronomy/crop physiology
 

Project Title	Rice physiology: Maximising rice yields beyond 2000
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-160A
Start Date:	01/07/97
Finish Date:	30/06/02
Researcher:	Mr. Robert L Williams
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Yanco Agricultural Institute PMB YANCO NSW 2703
Phone:	(02) 6951 2679
Fax:	(02) 6955 7580
Email:	Robert.Williams@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	Maintain on-farm rice yield improvement through genetic and management gains based on a knowledge of rice physiology by: 1. Developing screening techniques for rapid early growth, high harvest index and high radiation use efficiency and introduce these characters from introduced varieties into locally adapted lines. 2. Extending optimal management options, recently developed for Amaroo, to a range of varieties with special emphasis on nitrogen management.
Current Progress	This project has continued to meet project milestones by the conduct of detailed experiments at Yanco Agricultural Institute, nitrogen fertiliser trials on farmers fields and successfully released maNage rice v5.0. This season we have also initiated novel experiments into the physiological disorder of "straighhead". MaNage rice v 5.0 was released to 500 rice growers in December 2000. The new feature of version 5 was the prediction of crop development. This supplemented the usual yield and fertiliser response predictions based on the NIR plant tissue test. District Nitrogen trials in this past season have successfully been completed. A series of 8 experiments evaluated the effect of pre-flood N (0,90 and 240 kgN/ha)) and PI applied N (0 and 90 kgN/ha) on yields of Amaroo and Langi. At all sites adding N fertiliser increased yields to above 11 t/ha, with a greater response to N applied pre-flood than at PI.  The determinants of yield potential in the NSW rice industry were examined. A detailed daily study of crop growth was conducted as well as a shade experiment. Analysis of these trials is ongoing A glasshouse experiment demonstrated that straighthead symptoms were made worse with the addition of sugar or rice straw. The data also suggests that the redox potential of the flooded soil may be a key determinant of which soils will produce straighthead symptoms.

Crop nutrition
 

Project Title	NIR for improved fertilizer predictions II
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-185A
Start Date:	01/07/99
Finish Date:	01/07/02
Researcher:	Mr. John Oliver
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute PMB WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650
Phone:	(02) 6938 1816
Fax:	(02) 6938 1809
Email:	john.oliver@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	The project will continue to improve and backup the current NIR Tissue Testing Service, operated for rice growers by the Ricegrowers' Co-operative Limited. The major initiatives will include: 1. Extending the capability of the NIR Tissue Test to provide fertilizer recommendations for crops sampled prior to the panicle initiation (PI) stage; 2. Implementing a growth stage calibration, based on findings from the previous project (DAN-148A), to check the growth stages indicated by growers when they submit samples; and 3. Increasing the throughput of samples analysed per hour by developing calibrations and an operating procedure based on a diode array NIR spectrometer and further automate data handling options.
Current Progress	On a worldwide comparison Australian Rice growers achieve some of the highest grain yields; typically over 9 tonnes/ha. T o sustain these high yields and counter the loss of nutrients from the farm and from Australia, rice growers fertilizer their crops with an average of 130 kg N / ha, mostly in the form of urea. Smaller inputs of P, S and Zn are applied as fertilizer and Ca and Mg are applied in the irrigation water used to grow the crop. Current recommended practices for rice growing aim to optimize yield per hectare, yield per megalitre of irrigation water, and grain quality, with minimal impact on the general environment.  Appropriate use of fertilizers, especially nitrogen, is a significant component of these practices. This project contributes to the efficient fertilizer management of rice crops by mid crop analysis using the rapid, economical and user-friendly NIR technology. The Australian rice industry has operated an NIR tissue testing service for 14 years and tests samples from over 40% of rice farms. It is significant that about half of the crops tested are found to need no further fertilizer. The current project will streamline the tissue testing service, extend the sampling opportunity window, give rice growers more information on the nutrient status of their crops and provide accurate fertilizer recommendations. Contact Sue Ciavarella, IREC C/- NSW Agriculture, Phone 0269 512611

Crop protection
 

Project Title	Rotational weed control practices for rice (continuation of AGR-3A)
RIRDC Project No.:	AGR-6A
Start Date:	01/07/98
Finish Date:	30/06/02
Researcher:	Mr. Malcolm Taylor
Organisation:	Agropraisals Pty Ltd RMB 1553A COBRAM VIC 3644
Phone:	03) 5872 2892
Fax:	(03) 5872 2838
Email:	mtaylor@cnl.com.au
Objectives	· To develop rotational programs of herbicides coupled with the definition and integration of cultural weed control methods for rice. · Promote adoption of these practices by improving farmer knowledge of these issues through conduct of grower field days, publishing results in a format suitable to growers and assistance with preparation of annual weed control bulletins.
Current Progress	Herbicide Program Performance Evaluations Four replicated trials were established to compare the efficacy and crop safety of 11 existing and new commercially recommended weed control programs. Data was compiled from all trials to allow growers and agronomists to better match individual herbicide programs to their individual circumstances. Continuation of these experiments over multiple seasons will enable reliable comparative data to be developed. BAS 433 Bentazon (BASAGRAN) is a group C herbicide developed by BASF internationally for rice and grain legume crops. Development of bentazon plus MCPA sodium (as BAS 433) is being undertaken as a partnership between RR&DC and BASF Australia Ltd. Rate definition and residue studies were conducted in seven experiments. Samples from the residue studies were dispatched to BASF Australia Ltd. for analysis. Over the past two seasons bentazon plus MCPA has demonstrated effective control of dirty Dora, starfruit, arrowhead, water plantain, spikerush and seedling cumbungi at rates of approximately 800 plus 120 gai/ha. Pretilachlor Discovered and developed by Ciba Geigy (now Syngenta), this chlor-acetamide herbicide (Group K) is widely used in transplanted and direct seeded rice overseas. When applied to direct seeded rice it is co-formulated with fenclorim; a crop safener. Pretilachlor was evaluated by RR&DC in the early 1990's, however the window of application in large scale water-seeded rice was considered too narrow for commercial use. Given the increased adoption of dry broadcast seeding for rice establishment locally, pretilachlor was evaluated in this alternate and increasingly popular establishment method. Two field trials this season demonstrated encouraging results where rice had developed beyond the radicle stage prior to application. Extension Field days for the Rice Weed Control Working Group, RR&DC and NSW Agriculture were conducted in January 2001 to inspect field trial results. The Weed Management section of the Quality Rice Production in Southern Australia was completed and published. Acknowledgements We appreciate the support of the following individuals and organisations in conducting this work: Neil Vaughan, John Icely, David Florance, Stuart Nixon, Field Air Finley, BASF Australia Ltd., Nufarm Ltd, CropCare Australasia Pty. Ltd., DuPont (Australia) Ltd., Novartis Crop Protection, Aventis CropScience, Darren Noonan Landforming, John Murray Excavations and the Rice Research and Development Committee of RIRDC.


 

Project Title	Improving bloodworm, snail and earthworm control in rice
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-184A
Start Date:	1/07/99
Finish Date:	30/06/02
Researcher:	Dr Mark Stevens
Organisation:	NSW Agriculture Yanco Agricultural Institute Private Mail Bag YANCO NSW 2703
Phone:	(02) 6951 2611
Fax:	(02) 6951 2719
Email:	mark.stevens@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	New data on the efficacy of bloodworm control chemicals will be generated, allowing alternatives to chlorpyrifos to be developed. The potential of oviposition deterrents for bloodworm management will be investigated. Further chemical control trials will be conducted against aquatic earthworms, whilst ecological studies will determine whether crop rotations influence earthworm populations. Molluscicides that have the potential to replace copper sulphate for the control of aquatic snails will be evaluated. Effective alternatives to copper will be tested for rice phytotoxicity and environmental persistence to determine their suitability for commercial use.
Current Progress	Commercial-scale trials of alphacypermethrin (Dominex®) for bloodworm control were conducted on 3 MIA farms in the 2000/01 rice season. The results support those of previous small scale trials and show that 10 g ai/ha of alphacypermethrin provides marginally better bloodworm control than chlorpyrifos, the industry standard. The data package is complete and will shortly be submitted to the NRA as part of a claim for either registration or a general use permit. Field work on chlorothalonil for snail control is complete. No crop or soil residues were detected and the material dissipates rapidly from floodwater. A significant finding in laboratory studies is that chlorothalonil is effective against snail eggs. This may remove the need for split treatments associated with copper sulphate, the only current snail control compound. Laboratory trials have shown that Chironomus tepperi, the principal pest bloodworm species, avoids oviposition in water previously occupied by conspecific larvae. This suggests a negative-feedback mechanism is in operation, and that oviposition deterrents could be used to discourage rice field colonisation. A preliminary trial in which homogenised C.tepperi larvae were sprayed on rice fields was not successful, suggesting the biologically active component within the larvae may be rapidly degraded under field conditions.

Project Title	Development of integrated weed management strategies for the rice weed Cyperus difformis and Alisma plantago-aquatica
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-20A
Start Date:	01/07/97
Finish Date:	31/07/01
Researcher:	Prof. James Pratley
Organisation:	Charles Sturt University PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2864
Fax:	(02) 6933 2868
Email:	jpratley@csu.edu.au
Objectives	To reduce the threat of the aquatic weeds, dirty dora and water plantain, by understanding the biology of the weeds in order to develop integrated management strategies.
Current Progress	The biology of the two weeds has been investigated in response to concerns about herbicide resistance to current chemicals. The project is due to be completed late in 2001. For water plantain, it has been determined that the weed exhibits dormancy which can be broken by scarification. The proportion of seeds that germinate decreases with increasing depth of water and with increasing depth of soil. Incorporating or burning of stubbles appeared not to affect germination rates but cultivation reduced the proportion of germinating corms. In the case of dirty dora, the weed is widely distributed on more than 40% of farms. To germinate, the seed requires light and a minimum germination temperature of 100C. It germinates best with no standing water and germination percentage declines with increasing depth of standing water. Seedbanks tend to have accumulated to a larger extent under aerial seeding compared with sodseeding. Herbicide control using MCPA was best at earlier stages of growth and minimal water levels.


 

Project Title	Integrated management of Alismataceae weeds to reduce herbicide resistance
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-26A
Start Date:	01/10/99
Finish Date:	31/07/02
Researcher:	Dr. Farzad Jahromi
Organisation:	Charles Sturt University School of Agriculture PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2285
Fax:	(02) 6933 2812
Email:	fjahromi@csu.edu.au
Objectives	A practical cost-effective integrated strategy that controls major Alismataceae weeds (starfruit, Alisma, water plantain and possibly arrowhead) and assists in avoiding herbicide resistance by reducing herbicide usage.
Current Progress	The focus of work in this second, since the appointment of the new staff in January 2001, has been on formulation of the fungal pathogen Rhynchosporium alismatis. This work has consisted in extending the studies on granular formulation using sodium alginate previously reported in addition to testing new formulations. The survival of the fungal inoculum in the sodium alginate granulars at different drying temperature showed that airflow at 50C during 1 h can reduce the water content to less than 2% with inoculum remaining viable. The shelf-life study of the granulars is currently under study, this will determine how long the granular can be stored without significant loss of viability. Other formulations that are being studied include the production of micro-granular produced using skim milk powder. Initial work has shown higher survival rate of this formulation. The incorporation of additives such as Londax in the formulation are being trialed. Due to the delays in the project as a result of changes in the staff the second field trial was et up in December 2000. Unfortunately no conclusive data were obtained. This was primarily due to the lack of growth of the starfruit seedling after they were transplanted in the field.

Project Title	Influence of species on efficiency of barnyard grass control
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-28A
Start Date:	1/03/01
Finish Date:	31/07/02
Researcher:	Professor Jim Pratley
Organisation:	Charles Sturt University School of Agriculture PO Box 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2864
Fax:	(02) 6933 2868
Email:	jpratley@csu.edu.au
Objectives	An intensive survey of the rice growing regions of southern Australia will be conducted to collect samples of barnyard grass. The species present in the samples obtained will be identified to determine the incidence and distribution of the different species of barnyard grass present in the rice growing regions. The different species identified will be screened to the range of herbicides used for barnyard grass control. This will enable any variation in herbicide efficacy across the different species to be quantified.
Current Progress	Surveys have shown barnyard grass to be present on more than 90% of NSW rice farms. This weed is also the most prevalent in rice delivered to the silos. It remains, therefore, a major impediment to rice productivity. In a benchmarking study for herbicide resistance (UCS-25A) it was discovered that at least four species of barnyard grass were among the samples collected. Further, the herbicide resistance testing service at CSU has received several barnyard grass samples for testing, none of which have been shown to be resistant. It does suggest, however, that control procedures have been inadequate and that variability exists between barnyard grass species in their response to herbicides. An intensive survey of the rice growing regions of southern Australia will be conducted to collect samples of barnyard grass. The species present in the samples obtained will be identified to determine the incidence and distribution of the different species of barnyard grass present in the rice growing regions. The different species identified will be screened to the range of herbicides used for barnyard grass control. This will enable any variation in herbicide efficacy across the different species to be quantified.  This project will determine whether farmers need to amend herbicide practices on what barnyard grass species or mix of species is present.

Sustainable farming systems
 

Project Title	Effect of rice stubble burning versus retention on soil health
RIRDC Project No.:	CSL-13A
Start Date:	01/07/00
Finish Date:	30/09/02
Researcher:	Mr. Clive Kirkby
Organisation:	CSIRO Land and Water PMB No 3 GRIFFITH NSW 2680
Phone:	(02) 6960 1596
Fax:	(02) 6960 1600
Email:	clive.kirkby@grf.clw.csiro.au
Objectives	This research will assist in the identification of stubble management practices that optimise soil conditions for long term, minimum input crop protection. The objective is to compare and correlate the biological, chemical and physical properties of rice soils subjected to long-term stubble burning and retention using soil samples collected from farmers' fields.
Current Progress	The post harvest soil samples have all been collected and tests are now proceeding. All chemical and biological tests are now complete on the pre-sowing samples collected in September last year and differences are now emerging. The samples were analysed for a wide range of total "inorganic" elements by acid digestion and ICP analysis. Elements included Al, B, Ca, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, P, Pb, S and Zn. While there were differences between the individual soils from the different sites there were no significant differences between the "burnt" and "unburnt" group with the exception of sulphur (S). Sulphur was almost twice as high in the unburnt soils compared to the burnt soils 218 vs 126ppm. Thus from a traditional chemical viewpoint one could say that there is no real difference between the two groups. However, on examining the soils from a biological perspective a very different picture emerges. The soils were analysed for total carbon, mineralizable carbon, total, available and mineralizable nitrogen, microbial biomass and amount of fungi and bacteria. Total carbon, mineralizable carbon, total nitrogen, microbial biomass, amounts of fungi and bacteria were all significantly higher in the unburnt soils than the burnt soils. While there was no difference in the initial available nitrogen soil fumigation showed a 300% increase in the available nitrogen of the unburnt soils compared to a 200% increase for the burnt soils. This indicates that there is significant amount of nitrogen tied up in the microbial biomass that could eventually become available to a crop at a later date. Considering that the burnt soils were burnt several months prior to sample collection these results indicate that burning has caused long term changes to the biological properties of these soils.

Project Title	Sustainable management of on-farm biodiversity in the rice growing industry: vertebrate wildlife resources
RIRDC Project No.:	UCA-6A
Start Date:	01/10/00
Finish Date:	30/09/03
Researcher:	Dr. William Osborne
Organisation:	University of Canberra Applied Ecology Research Group UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6201 5377
Fax:	(02) 6201 2328
Email:	osborne@aerg.canberra.edu.au
Objectives	To achieve a more sustainable rice farming system by integrating an informed understanding of biodiversity into on-farm planning and management practises.
Current Progress	We have completed a comprehensive literature review of existing knowledge in the areas of biodiversity, agriculture, rice systems, and their potential interplay. We have also produced a detailed methodology for the fieldwork phase of the study, which includes our third benchmark, the choice of study farms. We have chosen 10 farms in the three irrigation areas on which to carry out the fieldwork. These farms were carefully chosen to provide variation in two characteristics which we think will contribute to on-farm biodiversity: presence of remnant vegetation and distance to a major river corridor. We have liased with the farmers and have their full cooperation for the duration of the study. We have chosen sampling areas within each of the farms, including sites for traplines and for bird counts, and have erected eight traplines (pitfall traps) on four of the 10 farms. These are 50 m fences with traps useful for capturing small mammals, reptiles, and frogs. Finally, we have just completed our first complete sample. The 21-day sample was very successful and produced some surprises. For example, following heavy rainfall we captured 2700 frogs in one night in 5 traplines. In total, we inventoried 87 species of birds, 12 species of reptiles, 10 species of mammals, and five species of frogs.

Technology transfer and communications
 

Project Title	Better extension programs for improved rice yields
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-162A
Start Date:	1/01/98
Finish Date:	30/6/02
Researcher:	Mr. Warwick Clampett
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture PO Box 1087 GRIFFITH NSW 2680
Phone:	(02) 6960 1317
Fax:	(02) 6963 0255
Email:	warwick.clampett@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	Improve yields, grain quality, profitability and sustainability of rice production by: · Identifying the needs of ricegrowers and constraints to improvement in the rice production system · Developing crop management recommendations and best management practices from existing technology, current practices and new research and development outcomes: and · Implementing effective extension programs to achieve better technology adoption on farm.
Current Progress	1. Crop Evaluation Program · Harvest data from 759 crops (614 in the previous season) from the 1999/2000 season was collected and analysed, and Ricecheck Crop Evaluation Reports mailed to ricegrowers in August and early September, 2000. Collection of 2000/2001 crop data has commenced. · Detailed statistical analysis of data from 3825 individual rice fields (6 seasons) by Charles Sturt University is being finalised. · Data analysis assisted in the annual revision of the Ricecheck Recommendations, the Best Management Practices for ricegrowing . 3. Surveys and Demonstration Program · Five Weed Management Demonstrations Finley, Barham, Coleambally, Griffith and Deniliquin)comparing alternative weed control strategies were conducted. The weed control results were presented to growers at Field Days in November and December. · Fertiliser strips demonstrating phosphorus and zinc responses were established in most rice districts. · Further sampling of a pilot study using precision agriculture technology was undertaken on a commercial rice crop in the Finley District 3. Extension Support Program · Display posters/presentation materials were developed for use at Rice Discussion Groups, Preseason Meetings and the 6 Rice Field Days.


 

Project Title	Technology transfer for a more productive and sustainable rice farming system
RIRDC Project No:	IRE-3A
Researcher:	Mr Nick Hutchins
Organisation:	Irrigation Research and Extension Committee C/-CSIRO Land & Water Private Mail Bag 3  GRIFFITH NSW 2680
Phone:	(02) 6960 1550
Fax:	(02) 6960 1562
Email:	hutchag@webfront.net.au
Objectives	To provide an integrated technology transfer mechanism for the rice R&D program which will lead to more profitable and sustainable rice and general irrigation farming systems in southern NSW.  The project will deliver: · Pre-season rice technology meetings in all rice producing districts. · Rice discussion groups through the production season. · A major rice field day each season. · Four editions of the Farmers' Newsletter each year. · An annual Irrigated Farm Competition to improve water use efficiency. · Regular planning and review meetings to ensure the relevance of irrigation R&D. · Examination of innovative options for technology transfer, eg: the Internet, CD-rom.
Current Progress	The implementation of milestones under Project IRE-3A by the IREC, continues to deliver on the transfer of quality information and technology to growers in southern New South Wales. To date there has been a substantial acceptance rate in relation to RICECHECK recommendations developed through NSW Agriculture. RICECHECK recommendations will be reviewed in September 2001. The IREC Farmers’ Newsletter acts as a major vehicle for the publication of research and extension articles for irrigation farmers in southern NSW. Three editions have been published in Year 2001. The project has employed a new editor which has improved these publications. The Year 2001 Rice Field Day was again successful. The event was attended by over 200 growers. Rice discussion groups are ongoing with pre-season technology meetings to take place in August and September 2001.

Project Title	Production of quality rice in south eastern Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	IRE-5A
Start Date:	01/01/99
Finish Date:	31/12/02
Researcher:	Ms Lucy Kealey
Organisation:	Irrigation Research & Extension Committee
Phone:	(02) 6964 5232
Fax:	(02 6964 0517
Email:	kealey@dragnet.com.au
Objectives	To improve the profitability and sustainability of rice growing and the rice industry in NSW by producing a technical reference publication "Production of Quality Rice in South Eastern Australia" for rice growers and industry service personnel.
Current Progress	Production of Quality Rice in South Eastern Australia was launched in August 2000 at the Annual General Meeting of the Ricegrowers’ Association. The publication was subsequently distributed to over 1600 rice growers and 60 subscribers requested the publication in response to the initial mailout. The publication was mailed to growers and subscribers containing 6 booklets: § Publication overview § Chapter 1: The rice industry of south eastern Australia § Chapter 4: Land for rice growing § Chapter 9: Weed management (2 booklets) § Chapter 12: Equipment and machinery § Chapter 13: Grain quality After the completion of the first batch of chapters, writing and editing commenced on the following chapters: § Chapter 2: Rice in the irrigated environment § Chapter 6: Crop nutrition § Chapter 7: Crop establishment and management § Chapter 11: Maintaining disease-free crops § Chapter 14: After the rice crop § Chapter 16: The business of rice growing Completion of these chapters is expected in the next reporting period.

Milling and processing
 

Project Title

Development of improved molecular detection methods for