Research progress of panicle shape in rice.

Panicle is the key organ for yield formation in rice,and panicle type is an important component of plant type.The formation of panicle involves a series of physiological and biochemical processes,including the formation of inflorescence architectures,grain development etc.In this paper,the classification of rice panicle type,the relationships btween panicle type and yield and quality,as well as genes controlling panicle morphology were reviewed.Also,some problems about panicle type in rice breeding were discussed.It was believed that the molecular mechanism of panicle type development will be clear,which maybe contribute to high yield and quality of rice breeding.