To meet future food demands and combat climate change, boosting crop productivity by at least 50% is essential. This project uses Setaria viridis, a model C4 monocot, to identify and characterize mutants affecting photosynthesis through low CO₂ screening and high-throughput fluorescence imaging. The insights and genes uncovered will inform genetic improvements in both C4 crops and C3 crops like rice through genome editing. 

Link: Kun-Ting Hsieh; HSUEYU CHUANG; Yen-Hsiu Lin 

In response to Taiwan’s water scarcity and rising temperatures, our research focuses on developing rice varieties with high water-use efficiency and heat tolerance. We explore how stomatal traits contribute to resilience by studying diverse rice varieties and irrigation strategies like alternate wetting and drying (AWD). Through physiological screening and genetic approaches, including CSSLs from wild rice, we aim to enhance food security under a changing climate. 

Link: Yi-Ging Lee 

This project integrates manual physiological surveys with drone-based multispectral imagery to evaluate how different irrigation practices affect rice, maize, and banana performance. By identifying physiological responses and vegetation indices linked to water status, we aim to develop precise, rapid, and scalable tools for crop water monitoring. Our goal is to optimize irrigation strategies and enhance resilience through trait-based insights and technology-driven solutions. 

Link: Yu-Shiang Su