Evaluation of starch granule morphology in wild relatives of rice using scanning electron microscopy

Rice grains exhibit unique starch properties and these properties differ among varieties. Starch granule morphology influences the physicochemical characteristics of starch and granule shape/size are a contributing factor in starch functional properties. Wild rice relatives represent a diverse range of material that may be useful for the identification of novel end-products or identify new germplasm for breeding programs. Comparative scanning electron microscopy studies can reveal differences in starch granule morphology between species. This study presents a qualitative evaluation of starch granule morphology of 19 spp. from four different genera (Oryza, Potamophila, Microlaena and Zizania) belonging to two different tribes (Oryzeae, Ehrharteae). The differences between the starch granule morphology and aluerone layer composition across these species will be discussed.