Oryza minuta have abundant genetic diversity, containing a large number of elite genes, is the valuable resource for cultivated rice genetic improvement and rice genome research. This paper summarized the research progress obtained in the use of Oryza minuta germplasm at home and abroad, mainly including: identification of excellent traits, construction of genetic populations；mapping, cloning and breeding utilization of favorable genes；and discussed the difficulties and coping strategies on the utilization of elite genes from Oryza minuta. These results will be conducive to further tap and exploit the favorable genes from Oryza minuta.