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 â with 2.3 billion affected, per FAO â 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 Japanâs 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 Britainâs 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 researchersâDr. Sabina Hillebrandt, Dr. Isabel Saur, and Prof. Dr. Johannes Wohlfartâproviding up to âĴ1.5 million each over five years to support innovative early-career research in humanities, life sciences,
A new phenotyping robot is transforming plant science with its adjustable wheel track, precision sensor gimbal, and advanced multi-sensor fusion. It allows faster, more accurate measurement of plant traits, supporting breakthroughs in crop improvement and sustainable agriculture.The post Smarter Rob
An international team led by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has identified sustainable farming practices for maize (corn) that maintain high yields while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study offers strategies to lower environmental impact and promote
Rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, quinoa is valued worldwide as a healthy food. Its greatest strength lies in its adaptability: the crop tolerates cold, heat and drought, making it [âĤ]The post Quinoa Research Project Aims to Bring Superfood to German Fields appeared first on Seed World.
Fescue is a versatile grass valued for livestock grazing and increasingly used on professional sports fields, where itâs starting to replace ryegrass. Modern breeding has produced varieties that are durable, drought-tolerant, and resistant to diseaseâwhile also improving yield, digestibility, and pa
The 2025 Euroseeds Congress in Edinburgh is a timely reminder of Scotlandâs rich plant breeding heritage. Few organisations showcase this better than The James Hutton Institute, where researchers in Dundee and Aberdeen advance crops that matter locally and globallyâfrom preserving potato diversity i
With climate change and more frequent extreme weather, global yields of crops like maize, rice, and soybeans could drop 12â20% by the end of the century. Researchers are exploring ways to boost yields and develop more resilient varieties. A recent study in Life shows that analyzing the genetics of w
Researchers are reimagining everyday staples to withstand extreme weather while keeping flavour and quality intact.The post What Will Your Fries Look Like in 2050? Scientists Have the Answer appeared first on Seed World.
Arabidopsis thaliana, a small flowering weed, has been central to plant biology for 50 years, helping scientists understand growth, hormones, and root development. Researchers at the Salk Institute have now created the first complete genetic atlas of Arabidopsis, mapping gene expression in 400,000 c
