Salinity Tolerant Rice Varieties Crucial for Production in Southern Thailand

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Walailak University have conducted a study on the response of indigenous rice varieties from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to salinity conditions. The study aimed to examine the growth, yield, and leaf nutrient composition of 10 indigenous rice varieties under different salinity levels, with the goal of identifying varieties capable of surviving and producing yield under saline conditions. The research concluded that three varieties, Luk Lai, Leb Nok, and Sang Yot (Bang Khan), are recommended for farmers for future production on saline soils due to their ability to survive in saline environments and yield production.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study highlighted the importance of salinity tolerant varieties for rice production in Southern Thailand, where salinity is a significant environmental stress.
  • The research involved 10 indigenous rice varieties from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, including Dok Kha, Hom Bon, Dawk Pa-yawm, Luk Lai, Leb Nok, Leuang, Banpeang, Chorlumpee, Sang Yot (Tha Sala), and Sang Yot (Bang Khan).
  • The experiment was conducted using a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with two factors: salinity level and rice variety.
  • Significant differences were observed across salinity levels and among rice varieties for most traits, with all rice varieties experiencing substantial reductions in growth when exposed to higher salinity levels.
  • The principal component analysis revealed that rice varieties exhibited varying responses in agronomic traits, yield traits, and leaf nutrients under different salinity conditions.
  • The research recommended Luk Lai, Leb Nok, and Sang Yot (Bang Khan) as suitable varieties for farmers to cultivate on saline soils.

Statistics:

  • 10 indigenous rice varieties were studied from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.
  • Three varieties, Luk Lai, Leb Nok, and Sang Yot (Bang Khan), are recommended for farmers due to their ability to survive in saline environments and yield production.
  • The experiment was conducted using a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with two factors: salinity level and rice variety.
  • Salinity levels used in the experiment ranged from 0.0% to 0.8%.

Sources:

  • VerticalNews. "New study results on agriculture have been published" (2025).
  • Walailak University. "Comparative analysis of Thai indigenous rice on growth, yield, and leaf nutrient under salinity conditions" (Frontiers in Agronomy, 2025).
  • NewsRx. "Researchers at Walailak University Target Agriculture (Comparative analysis of Thai indigenous rice on growth, yield, and leaf nutrient under salinity conditions)" (Agriculture Week, September 4, 2025).