Hybrid rice varieties face new scrutiny

China's agricultural authority is set to conduct more comprehensive assessments of hybrid rice varieties following a massive crop failure in Anhui province caused by abnormal weather conditions and rice disease.

The evaluations will focus on high yields and also the adaptability of varieties to different growing environments, including resilience to disease and insects, according to Zhang Taolin, vice-minister of agriculture.

"There will also be evaluations of the efficiency of fertilizers and the grain quality of hybrid rice," he said at a news conference at the State Council Information Office on Tuesday.