Mapping millet genetics
In the semi-arid tropics of Asia and Africa, conditions can be difficult for crops. Plants need to have short growing seasons, survive on poor soils and tolerate environmental stresses. Enter, the millets.
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New portable DNA sequencer quickly and accurately diagnoses wheat viruses
A group of scientists have developed a new technology that makes it possible to rapidly identify viruses in wheat fields with a significantly higher accuracy. They collected four wheat samples from western Kansas and used a new harmonica-sized DNA sequencer and a computer program to quickly detect three different viruses in the samples. Furthermore, their results suggested that the samples contained a new virus strain.
Read morePhotosynthesis Olympics: Can the best wheat varieties be even better?
Scientists have put elite wheat varieties through a sort of 'Photosynthesis Olympics' to find which varieties have the best performing photosynthesis. This could ultimately help grain growers to get more yield for less inputs in the farm.
Read moreAnts inhibit at least 14 different plant diseases
New research shows that ants inhibit at least 14 different plant diseases. The small insects secrete antibiotics from glands in the body. On their legs and body, they also host colonies of bacteria that secrete antibiotics. It is probably these substances that inhibit a number of different diseases and researchers now hope to find biological pesticides that may conquer resistant plant diseases.
Read moreProtein that triggers plant defences to light stress identified
A newly discovered protein turns on plants' cellular defence to excessive light and other stress factors caused by a changing climate, according to a new study.
Read moreCheap as chips: Identifying plant genes to ensure food security
Scientists have developed a new approach enabling researchers to more efficiently identify the genes that control plant traits. This method will enable plant breeders and scientists to develop more affordable, desirable, and sustainable plant varieties. The application will be most valuable for the fruit, vegetable and grain crops that are critical for global food security and human nutrition.
Read moreNodulation connected to higher resistance against powdery mildew in legumes
Scientists have long known that nodulation is important to plant health. Nodulation occurs when nodules, which form on the roots of plants (primarily legumes), form a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria that deliver nutrients to the plant. This process is a key part of sustainable agriculture and makes legumes an important source of protein for much of the world. However, recent research shows that nodulation might positively impact the plant's microbiome in other ways.
Read moreAnt-plant partnerships may play unexpected role in ant evolution
Partnerships between ant and plant species appear to arise from — but not drive — rapid diversification of ants into new species.
Read morePlants alert neighbors to threats using common 'language'
New research shows that plants can communicate with each other when they come under attack from pests.
Read moreBiologists track the invasion of herbicide-resistant weeds into southwestern Ontario
A team led by biologists have identified the ways in which herbicide-resistant strains of the invasive common waterhemp weed have emerged in fields of soy and corn in southwestern Ontario. The resistance, first detected in 2010, spread thanks to two mechanisms: either pollen and seeds of resistant plants were physically dispersed by wind, water and other means, or resistance appeared through the spontaneous emergence of mutations that then spread.
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