Scientists from TUM, Helmholtz Munich, and IPK have decoded the pan-genome of 33 oat lines, revealing the full genetic diversity of one of the world’s most nutritious grains. Published in Nature, the research provides a foundation for breeding climate-resilient, high-yield oat varieties capable of w
Carrot breeding is evolving to meet modern challenges — from climate resilience and disease resistance to colour diversity and consumer appeal. Today’s breeders combine advanced genetics, grower collaboration, and sustainable practices to deliver carrots that perform under pressure and delight in ev
New research from the University of Warwick and Cranfield University shows that genetic selection could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from crops, especially rice. Published in Frontiers in Agronomy, the study found that rice variety choice can influence methane emissions more than fe
Scientists have discovered how Phytophthora infestans — the pathogen behind the Irish potato famine — evades plant immune defenses, offering a path to stronger crops. Researchers from the University of York, The James Hutton Institute, and Université Libre de Bruxelles identified enzymes called AA7
The 180-year Broadbalk Experiment at Rothamsted shows long-term nitrogen and phosphorus fertilisation can boost soil carbon storage, helping mitigate climate change. Research reveals that N and P affect microbial activity and carbon persistence differently, with combined use maximizing stable soil c
New research reveals regional differences in currant-lettuce aphid populations across England, showing eastward migration into major lettuce-growing areas but limited westward movement. The findings highlight the need for region-specific pest management strategies to protect the UK’s valuable lettuc
New research shows wheat varieties with the highest yield under optimal conditions also perform best under drought and heat stress. Scientists propose selecting high-yield candidates early, then testing them in target regions, creating a more efficient, cost-effective breeding strategy. Key traits i
White bread may soon get a fibre-rich upgrade without sacrificing taste or texture. Researchers at Rothamsted, with partners from the University of Reading and the Allied Technical Centre, developed new high-fibre white bread recipes that maintain moisture, springiness, and overall appeal. Sensory a
Rothamsted scientists discovered how specific GA3OX genes in wheat regulate growth and grain size by controlling gibberellin hormone levels. Variations in these genes affect plant height and grain weight, with modern breeding already favoring variants linked to larger grains. This insight offers new
Researchers traced the genetic basis of late flowering in barley to a single mutation, SNP22, in the PPD-H1 gene. By studying over 2,000 barley varieties and ancient samples, they revealed that this trait originated in wild barley from the southern Levant after domestication. This adaptation, linked
Rothamsted researchers developed a simple field test to measure soil macropore networks, revealing how different farming systems shape soil structure and health. The method links pore architecture to microbial activity, offering a practical tool to monitor the impact of land management on soil funct
Facing growing food insecurity — with 2.3 billion affected, per FAO — Chinese scientists have developed a single-atom copper pesticide. Created by USTC, Tsinghua, and HFUT, this innovation boosts copper efficiency and cuts environmental impact, offering a new path for sustainable crop protection.The
New research shows the soil fungus Trichoderma hamatum emits natural chemicals that suppress crop diseases, offering a potential sustainable alternative to synthetic fungicides.The post Common Fungus Releases Vapours That Fight Crop Diseases, Study Finds appeared first on Seed World.
A new study reveals the structure of HvAACT1, a barley root protein that protects plants from toxic aluminum in acidic soils. By pumping citrate into the soil, the protein neutralizes aluminum, allowing barley to thrive where most crops struggle. This discovery could guide breeding and biotech strat
Scientists reveal how auxin guides root gravitropism by strengthening cell walls, helping roots bend downward and adapt to soil obstacles.The post New Study Reveals How Roots Sense Gravity appeared first on Seed World.
A new study shows that while semi-dwarfing genes introduced during the Green Revolution had little effect on gluten, extreme dwarf wheat varieties have poorer baking quality due to reduced glutenins and an unfavorable gliadin-to-glutenin balance. Researchers at the Leibniz Institute found that genet
Canary Islands lentils date back 2,000 years. Ancient crops adapted to heat and drought may aid future farming in a changing climate.The post Ancient Lentils Still Thrive in the Canary Islands appeared first on Seed World.
Vertical farming can greatly boost lettuce yields and cut water use but currently has a higher carbon footprint than field-grown UK lettuce. Energy demands and materials like jute plugs drive much of its emissions, though alternatives could reduce impact. Researchers say innovations in efficiency an
Deep in the Arctic, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault safeguards over a million seeds, symbolizing global efforts to preserve plant biodiversity. Plant researcher Fiona Hay has dedicated her career to improving seed storage, longevity, and accessibility across international seed and gene banks. These b
Most Swedish consumers view crops developed through crossbreeding positively, according to a new SLU survey. The study of 999 participants on ancient and modern wheat found 88% saw at least one positive trait, including taste, health, or safety. Awareness of cereal varieties increased with age and e
Researchers at Japan’s RIKEN CSRS discovered SCORE, an ancient plant immune receptor that detects cold-shock proteins in bacteria, fungi, and insects. The study reveals potential to engineer crops and trees with enhanced disease resistance using synthetic SCORE receptors.The post Game-changing Biote
A UK research project emphasizes the need for climate-resilient potato varieties to protect Britain’s staple crop. Professor Ian Toth of the National Potato Innovation Centre warns that urgent action is required as rising temperatures threaten yields, despite ongoing development of heat- and drought
Salk Institute researchers have discovered that plants boost their immune systems after experiencing drought, revealing genetic strategies to develop hardier, more resilient crops. This finding highlights how plants prioritize survival over growth when recovering from water stress.The post All DRII-
The European Research Council (ERC) awarded Starting Grants to three University of Cologne researchers—Dr. Sabina Hillebrandt, Dr. Isabel Saur, and Prof. Dr. Johannes Wohlfart—providing up to €1.5 million each over five years to support innovative early-career research in humanities, life sciences,
