Can we create “Elite Rice”—a multifunctional crop for food, feed, and bioenergy production?

Abstract

Because arable land is limited, land use for food and bioenergy production remains a controversial issue. If food crops can generate high yields and the biomass can also be used effectively for both animal feed and bioenergy production feedstock, conflicts over land use can be reduced. Rice is an important crop; as a worldwide staple food with abundant residuals (polysaccharide-rich straw) after grain collection, this crop plant is attractive as a renewable raw material for bioenergy and feed production. Here, we address current issues and discuss promising methods for improving rice plant characteristics suitable for food, feed, and bioenergy production. Advanced genetic engineering techniques can be used to precisely manipulate the mechanisms regulating grain production, cellulose and lignin content, and stress tolerance. In addition, genetic modification of the mechanisms controlling glycoside hydrolase expression can enhance biomass saccharification for bioenergy production and improved animal digestibility. We also address the issue of nutrient recycling associated with rice straw utilisation for biofuel production.