One hundred years ago, plant technician Arthur Watkins launched a project to collect wheat samples from around the globe, insisting that British consulates and economic agents supply him with wheat from local markets. His persistence has been exceptional and, a century later, he is on the verge of showing spectacular results.
A collaboration between Britain and China has sequenced the DNA of all 827 types of wheat collected by Watkins, which were grown at the John Innes Center near Norwich for most of the last century.
In this way, scientists have created a “gold mine”, identifying previously unknown genes that are now being used to create resistant varieties with improved yields that could help feed the Earth’s growing population.
More than 800 types of wheat could save the world
Varieties that include wheat capable of growing in saline soil are currently being developed, while researchers at the Punjab Agricultural University are working to improve disease resistance in seeds received from the John Innes Centre.
Among the strains collected are those that would reduce the need for nitrogen fertilizers, the production of which is a major source of carbon emissions.
„Îwhat youI discovered a mine Golden”
“Essentially, we discovered a gold mine. This will make a huge difference to our ability to feed the world as agriculture comes under increasing climate pressures,” said Simon Griffiths, geneticist at the John Innes Centre.
Currently, one in five calories consumed by humans comes from wheat, and each year this crop is on the table of an increasing number as the world’s population continues to grow, potrivit The Guardian.
“Wheat has been a cornerstone of human civilization. In regions such as Europe, northern Africa, large parts of Asia and later North America, its cultivation fueled great empires, from ancient Egypt to the rise of modern Britain,” added Griffiths.
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Source: www.descopera.ro
