Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Stem Aerenchyma Development of Rice Under Different Water and Nitrogen Regimes

Abstract

Simple Summary Rice cultivation contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change. In this study, we compared the effects of contrasting water and nitrogen (N) regimes on the growth of two rice varieties, Pathum Thani 1 (PTT1) and Khao Dawk Mali 105 (KDML105). PTT1 produced a higher grain yield than KDML105. However, cumulative methane (CH4) emissions did not differ significantly between the two rice varieties. Under flooded conditions, N fertilization increased stem aerenchyma formation in both rice varieties, particularly KDML105. However, this response was not significantly associated with CH4 or N2O emissions. These findings suggest that water and N management affected the physiological responses of the rice varieties, which may influence both crop productivity and environmental impacts. Appropriate management could, therefore, contribute to more sustainable rice production.