Prickly lettuce has potential as a new cash crop providing raw material for rubber production, according to Washington State University scientists. They identified genetic markers linked to rubber production in the plant's genetic code, opening the way for breeding desired traits and developing a sustainable source of natural rubber.
Experiments show that living mulch can reduce broccoli yields, with reduced effects when organic fertilizer is added.
Boosting crop yields through high-performance computing, genetic engineering, and modifying plant anatomy may be the solution to increasing global food demand by 2050.
A recent study by the University of Illinois has identified specific nutritional needs for soybeans to improve yield and seasonal nutrient supply. The researchers found that nutrients such as phosphate, potassium, nitrogen, sulfur, and copper are critical for high-yielding success.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that resistant barley varieties accumulate beta-glucan in their cell walls, which may influence nutrient flow and natural defense strategies against cereal cyst nematode. This finding could lead to new targets for resistance strategies in barley and other cereal crops.
MSU researchers are using big data analytics to help farmers adapt to climate variability, reducing nitrous oxide emissions and algal blooms. The project aims to integrate crop models with satellite imagery and UAVs to promote water-, nutrient- and climate-smart technologies.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that an intensified management system increased corn yields by 28%, primarily due to the combined effects of Bt trait, strobilurin-containing fungicide, and balanced nutrition. The study suggests that no single factor is crucial, but rather the synergistic effect of all five management fa...
New study finds that farms with lower carbon footprints and higher-producing cows are more profitable, offering a win-win solution for the dairy industry. By increasing milk production, decreasing herd replacement rates, or improving reproductive efficiency, farmers can reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining profitability.
A Dartmouth-led team has identified the GIGANTEA gene as a key factor in enhancing crop plant resilience to harsh conditions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of hardier crops with improved yield, addressing global food security challenges.
Researchers at Australian National University have made a breakthrough in boosting the sluggish activity of Rubisco, a crucial enzyme for plant growth. By introducing a modified version of RAF1, scientists successfully doubled Rubisco levels in leaves, leading to increased photosynthesis and plant growth.
A recent study finds that climate change will lead to a significant decrease in wheat production, with yields projected to drop by 6% for each degree Celsius temperature rise. The resulting loss of nearly one-quarter of current wheat production could severely impact global food supplies.
Small farmers, often women, are preserving traditional crop varieties and landraces, providing vital resources for their livelihoods. Peri-urban and marginal locations are key areas where this preservation is occurring, with urban markets driving demand for local foodstuffs.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that naturally occurring plant-friendly fungi can prevent crop-ravishing diseases from spreading and aid plant survival in testing environmental conditions. These 'symbiotic' relationships between barley and the fungi increase plant survival by up to six times.
A new study found that climate variability historically accounts for one-third of yield variability for maize, rice, wheat, and soybeans worldwide. The equivalent of 36 million metric tons of food is lost each year due to climate-related crop yield fluctuations.
A new UF/IFAS study reveals that warming temperatures could lead to a decline in wheat production, with crop losses estimated at one fourth of the annual global wheat trade. The research used computer models to predict the impact of temperature increases on wheat yield and found that warmer temperatures are already slowing yield gains.
Weed control in conventional farming methods has a negative impact on the environment. Research from the University of Copenhagen reveals that crops like corn, grains, and beans can suppress weed growth when sown in tighter grid patterns. This results in up to 72% reduction in weed biomass and a 45% increase in grain yields.
A collaborative research project has identified a specific gene in soybean that improves its tolerance to soil salinity. The researchers found that this gene can be used to breed soybeans that can thrive in areas with high salt levels, which is essential for improving global food security.
Researchers created an oil palm system model using APSIM framework to help growers maximize yields while reducing environmental harm. The model accounts for soil, climate, and management factors to evaluate water balance, nutrient balance, and greenhouse gas emissions.
A new study by IIASA researchers finds that climate change impacts on crop yields could lead to a 18% decline in global caloric production or a 3% increase by 2050. The researchers identified likely needed adaptations and transformations for global agricultural systems, highlighting the importance of irrigation and regional connections.
New research from The Ohio State University found that a combination of shredded newspaper and grass clippings is an effective mulch material, allowing squash bees to nest without negative impacts. This eco-friendly practice also improves plant growth and fruit production.
Researchers found that insecticides increase slug populations and reduce crop yields by poisoning insects that eat slugs. The neonicotinoids can have unintended costs, even within crop production.
A 12-year University of Illinois study shows that cover crops increase soil organic carbon stock without improving crop yields. The practice is found to sequester the most soil organic carbon in no-till systems with hairy vetch and cereal rye cover crops.
Scientists have discovered a set of gene variations that can increase fruit production in tomatoes and potentially other flowering plants, including staple crops like soybeans. By fine-tuning the balance between florigen and anti-florigen, plant breeders can customize genetic variations to maximize yield gains.
Researchers observed large parties of chimpanzees foraging crops at night in maize fields of Kibale National Park, Uganda. Chimpanzees also presented few signs of vigilance and anxiety during nighttime crop-raids, indicating a high level of adaptability to human activities.
A new five-year project aims to dramatically upscale banana breeding efforts in Uganda and Tanzania, developing high-yielding, disease-resistant hybrids with a 30% higher yield and 50% resistance. The effort is being funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to improve the region's $4.3 billion yearly banana crop.
The Sahel region is experiencing a shrinking margin between supply and demand for primary production, driven by population growth and increasing consumption. The study found that the rate of increase in food needs was 2.2% per year, while crop production remained largely unchanged over the past decade.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified 'hotspots' around the globe where crop wild relatives can be conserved to secure future global food resources. The highest concentration of these species is found in the Middle East's Fertile Crescent, threatening their survival due to climate change and conflict.
Researchers have identified 871 wild plant species in China with potential to adapt globally important crops, including rice and wheat. These crop wild relatives (CWR) can improve crop tolerance and nutritional qualities.
A new study led by the University of Exeter warns that many global crop-producing countries will be overwhelmed by pests within the next 30 years if current trends continue. The research identifies the most invasive pest species, including fungi and nematodes, which are expected to spread rapidly due to climate change.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered that boron plays a crucial role in the growth and development of corn plants. A lack of boron causes problems with the meristems, or stem cells, leading to stunted tassels and reduced crop yields.
Researchers are developing Camelina sativa as a biodiesel crop for the Great Plains, which can grow on poor-quality farmland and requires little irrigation and fertilizer. By altering the plant's biochemistry, they aim to create low-viscosity oil that can be used directly in diesel engines.
A new study from MIT warns that climate change and air pollution can combine to reduce crop yields, with effects varying by region. The study found that ozone pollution can cause significant damage to crops, particularly in the US where stricter regulations may mitigate its impact.
New research suggests that climate change increases the risk of a major slowdown in global crop yields over the next two decades. The odds of such an event are about 1 in 10 for corn and 1 in 20 for wheat, even with a warming climate.
Researchers at University of Southampton found a link between increasing temperatures and reduced wheat yield in India. Warmer nighttime temperatures had the most significant impact on crop yield, highlighting the vulnerability of Indian wheat production to climate change.
A team of researchers has identified a novel ion transporter gene, GmCHX1, linked to salt tolerance in wild soybean. This discovery provides an effective strategy for uncovering novel genomic information for crop improvement.
A study by Eric Brennan and Jim Leap found that drilling is more effective than broadcasting for establishing uniform and dense cover crops on beds. Drilled cover crops had greater uniformity and faster emergence, leading to increased weed suppression.
Reducing agricultural production in provinces like Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, and Hebei, and importing food from other regions, could conserve China's water resources. A new report suggests that restructuring these regions could reduce national water use while maintaining food security.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are using drones to take aerial pictures of crops, allowing them to detect areas of stress and nutrient deficiencies more efficiently. The drones equipped with multispectral cameras can identify problem areas, enabling farmers to target scouting in those specific areas and optimize crop yields.
A new Stanford study reveals that European farmers will face significant crop yield losses due to climate change, but adapting can help slow the decline. The research shows that adaptation options such as switching varieties or installing irrigation can reduce yield losses by up to 87% for corn.
Adding camelina or safflower to crop rotations with winter wheat and summer fallow increases wind erosion risk in the Pacific Northwest. No-till fallow or planting another crop without a fallow year can help control blowing dust.
A new technology developed by VIB/UGent scientists has simplified the production of biotech medicines by truncating complex sugar structures, retaining therapeutic efficiency. This innovation has the potential to make biotech medicine production cheaper and more efficient.
Researchers found that crop domestication took much longer than expected, with cultural and historical factors playing a key role. Domesticated crops like corn showed traits such as seed resistance and shortened flowering times, but their adaptation was slower than genetic changes.
A new modeling tool, GAMCAF, predicts a 40% increase in potato production across the ESR and identifies key factors affecting yields, such as soil quality and water management. The platform aims to optimize regional food production and improve food security for consumers, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
A team of international researchers has identified a key receptor binding to BABA, a chemical boosting plant immunity. The findings offer more durable crop protection by priming the plant immune system against future attacks.
A new study found that pelargonic acid is an effective natural herbicide for controlling weeds in yellow squash, with minimal crop injury. The 10-lb/acre PA treatment produced the highest squash yields and fruit number compared to other application rates.
A study published in Nature Climate Change found that using corn crop residue to make ethanol and other biofuels reduces soil carbon but generates more greenhouse gases than gasoline, casting doubt on its climate benefits. Researchers suggest planting cover crops or alternative feedstocks to mitigate emissions.
A study by World Agroforestry Centre found that Jathropha, promoted for its energy potential, failed in Kenya due to lack of market access and proper cultivation practices. The researchers emphasize the importance of analyzing the crop's impact before promotion.
The International Peanut Genome Initiative has successfully sequenced the peanut's genome, providing researchers with access to 96% of all peanut genes. This breakthrough will enable the development of drought- and disease-resistant, lower-input, and higher-yielding peanut varieties.
A new study estimates that future heat waves could double crop yield losses, particularly for maize, and offset positive CO2 fertilisation effects on wheat and soybean yields. Climate mitigation policies can help reduce risks of negative impacts on global food supply.
Agroforestry is key to increasing food production in Africa by replenishing soils, improving biodiversity, and conserving natural resources. By adopting sustainable agricultural intensification techniques, farmers can meet the growing population's needs without degrading the environment.
Crop residue burning is a common practice in Indochina for pest control and field preparation, but it also causes significant air pollution and health concerns. The ongoing agricultural fires in the region release vast amounts of smoke into the atmosphere, affecting respiratory health and environmental conditions.
Crop intensification through agroforestry can improve soil fertility, biodiversity, and water quality, increasing food production in Africa. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, farmers can maintain nutrient cycling, organic matter build-up, and ecosystem resilience.
A study by the University of Leeds reveals that global warming of 2°C will negatively impact crop yields in temperate and tropical regions, with reduced yields starting from the 2030s. The impact of climate change on crops will vary from year-to-year and place-to-place, becoming more erratic.
Researchers found that western corn rootworm beetles resistant to crop rotation are less vulnerable to RNAi treatment, surviving longer on soybean leaves. The study suggests targeting a single gene may not be the best strategy for controlling pests.
Researchers successfully increased photosynthetic rate by 30% and turned sugarcane into an oil-producing crop. The team hopes to integrate these attributes into sugarcane to make it more productive with more photosynthesis and cold-tolerant.
Researchers evaluated county-level energy and GHG intensity of grain corn, stover, and cob production in Ontario from 2006-2011. The study identified opportunities for efficiency improvements through field-drying corn hybrids, reduced tillage, and diminished nitrogen inputs to reduce GHG emissions.
Scientists at the University of York have developed hemp plants with dramatically increased oleic acid content, making them attractive for cooking oil production. The new oil profile has a longer shelf life and greater heat tolerance, opening up industrial applications.
A study by the University of Exeter reveals that crop pests are greatly underestimated in developing countries, posing a significant threat to global food security. With many nations underreporting pest loads, investment in pest observations is crucial to identifying and controlling losses.
Researchers in sweet corn production emphasize the need for accurate measurement of crop responses to improve decision-making. The current approach often focuses on yield, whereas processor variables like recovery and case production are crucial for productivity.
Researchers at Durham University have discovered a natural mechanism in plants that can stimulate growth even under stress, leading to potential improvements in crop yields. The team found that plants produce a modifier protein called SUMO that interacts with growth-repressing proteins, allowing for the removal of brakes on plant growth.