IR8

IR8, officially released by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in 1966, is a high-yielding rice cultivar known for its key role in the Green Revolution. It earned the nickname miracle rice because it delivered substantially higher yields than traditional varieties when grown with adequate irrigation and fertilizer.

Development and characteristics: IR8 was produced through IRRI’s plant-breeding program by crossing and selecting lines that combined high yield potential with a semi-dwarf stature. The shorter, sturdier plants reduced lodging and allowed farmers to apply more fertilizer and water, enabling higher grain production. The variety's maturity is in the typical rice range for many semi-dwarf lines, with development lasting under favorable conditions.

Impact and adoption: IR8 was rapidly adopted across Asia, and its success helped to lift national rice production in several countries during the late 1960s and 1970s. The cultivar’s performance demonstrated the potential of improved germplasm when paired with modern agronomic practices, contributing to broader food-security gains in the region.

Legacy and considerations: IR8 is regarded as a landmark in agronomic breeding and the Green Revolution. While it showcased how genetics and inputs could dramatically raise yields, it also highlighted issues associated with intensive input use, such as environmental impact and dependence on compact seed systems. The IR8 breeding approach influenced subsequent high-yielding varieties and ongoing rice-breeding programs worldwide.