Genetic Diversity of Indigenous Rice Varieties in Thailand Unveiled

Researchers from Chiang Mai University have shed light on the genetic diversity of indigenous rice varieties cultivated by Mon-Khmer-speaking ethnic communities in northern Thailand. By analyzing 100 rice samples from 11 villages, the study revealed remarkable differences in pericarp coloration and genetic clusters corresponding to ethnolinguistic groups. The findings have significant implications for preserving indigenous rice varieties and identifying novel genetic resources for future rice breeding and improvement programs.

Key Takeaways:

• The Mon-Khmer-speaking peoples introduced rice cultivation from southern China to northern Thailand during the Neolithic period, resulting in the development of various indigenous rice varieties.
• Morphological analysis of 100 rice samples revealed differences in pericarp coloration, with Khmuic rice predominantly exhibiting off-white, brown, and black colors, while Palaungic rice tended to be lighter, including light and red shades.
• Genome-wide analysis identified two primary genetic clusters corresponding to the ethnolinguistic groups, with Khmuic rice displaying high genetic homogeneity and characteristics of Subtropical Japonica rice, and Palaungic rice exhibiting greater genetic diversity composed of both Japonica and Indica rice.
• The study highlights the importance of preserving indigenous rice varieties, particularly those cultivated by Mon-Khmer-speaking ethnic communities, to protect their genetic diversity and potential for future rice breeding and improvement programs.
• The research provides insights into the relationship between ethnolinguistic groups and rice diversity, contributing to a better understanding of the complex interactions between human migration, cultural practices, and crop development.

Statistics:

• 100 rice samples were collected from 11 villages representing the Khmuic and Palaungic language branches of the Mon-Khmer group.
• The study identified two primary genetic clusters corresponding to the ethnolinguistic groups, with Khmuic rice comprising 90% of the samples and Palaungic rice accounting for 10%.
• The pericarp coloration of Khmuic rice was predominantly off-white, brown, and black, while Palaungic rice tended to be lighter, with 60% exhibiting light shades and 20% showing red shades.

Sources:

• Seetaraso, T., et al. (2025). Genetic Diversity of Indigenous Rice Varieties Cultivated by Mon-Khmer-Speaking Ethnic Communities in Thailand. Rice, 18(1), 60.
• Chiang Mai University. (2025). Research Fund. Funded by Fundamental Fund 2024.