Challenge Heat stress poses a significant threat to crop productivity by disrupting key physiological processes, particularly photosynthesis and respiration. These disruptions can lead to substantial yield losses. While there is growing evidence that increased nutrient supply can help alleviate the impact of heat stress, there is limited understanding of how mineral nutrients like nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) influence a plant’s ability to physiologically acclimate to elevated temperatures.
Solution This PhD project investigates how rice genotypes vary in their capacity to acclimate photosynthetic and respiratory functions under heat stress, and whether these responses are modified by the availability of N and P. The study combines controlled environment trials at the University of New England (UNE) Australia, field experimentation at the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) Columbia, and simulation modelling using ORYZA software at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Philippines. This integrative approach enables both empirical and predictive assessments of heat stress responses across a range of nutrient regimes.
Impact By identifying how N and P affect the heat stress resilience of rice genotypes, this research offers valuable insights for improving crop management strategies in high-temperature environments. The modelling outcomes may inform future applications in the Australian horticultural sector, particularly for forecasting and enhancing heat tolerance in glasshouse-grown crops. This work supports the development of climate-resilient agriculture through targeted nutritional and genetic strategies.
