Perspectives and Challenges of Phenotyping in Rice Research

With the advancement of sequencing technology, rapid progress in genomic studies has been achieved; however, the lack of large-scale accurate estimation of phenotypic data is one of the major bottlenecks slowing down the progress in functional genomics and crop breeding studies. With the advancement of recent high-throughput phenotyping technologies, researchers can explore complex traits that are impossible to measure with conventional phenotyping methods. In this chapter, the major phenotyping tools and techniques used in field conditions and controlled environments have been discussed, along with their advantages and limitations. Some conceptual challenges have been proposed, and our perception to bridge the gap between phenotype and genotype are also discussed. There is no doubt that the recent developments in high-throughput plant phenotyping will accelerate crop genetic improvement and promote next-generation green revolution.