China achieves 99% hybrid rice seed cloning with HUAXU gene, cuts annual seed costs

Chinese researchers identified the rice gene HUAXU and used it to trigger apomixis in hybrid rice.

The method achieved over 99% seed-cloning efficiency while keeping yields stable across varieties and generations.

If scaled, farmers could replant high-yield hybrid rice without buying new seed every season, cutting costs.

The advance could broaden access to productive rice varieties in China and beyond.