News

Why invest in wheat research?

Wheat is the most important food crop worldwide and a principal source of nutrients in some of the poorest countries of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. But wheat, like all living organisms, is unimaginably complex.

CIMMYT scientist Matthew Reynolds believes that for this reason we need a whole consortium of scientists to improve its yield. This video highlights work that has already been done to increase the productivity of wheat through research in spike photosynthesis, roots and breeding. Because when it comes down to it, crop yields cannot be improved overnight, certainly not sustainably. It takes time and investment, and by planning ahead we are actually trying to preempt a disaster, with research and with partnership.

11.14.2012

Seeds of Hope

Wheat is a very important crop around the world, but just like other organisms, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases. This video delves into the world of plant breeders and plant pathologists. It takes a look at some of the biotic constraints on our wheat crops, and how plant breeding can alleviate their damage to this vital commodity.

09.19.2012

A New Approach to Molecular Plant Breeding

An ARS scientist in Ithaca, New York, is using a new statistical approach to help speed the development of improved varieties of crops.

Plant breeders constantly strive to breed new varieties that yield more, resist emerging pests and pathogens, tolerate heat and drought, and grow in marginal soils and environments. Increasingly, molecular tools are used to speed those efforts. By identifying genes associated with desirable traits, scientists don’t have to wait for time-consuming field observations.

04.16.2012

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