Biotech Updates

USDA ARS Scientists Develop New Lentil Variety

March 19, 2010

Scientists led by plant genetist George Vandemark from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service have developed a new lentil variety named "Essex." The variety is high yielding, has nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and is a tasty source for protein. It has a symbiotic relationship with beneficial soil microbes Rhizobium bacteria which can convert nitrogen from the atmosphere into a form plants can use for growth and help naturally replenish the soil's fertility.

The new variety performed very well in advanced yield trials in Washington State, Idaho, North Dakota and Montana. These states accounted for a combined lentil harvest  worth $87 M in 2008 of which 78 percent were exported.  Primary markets for Essex aside from the Pacific Northeast and Northern Plains will be Mexico and other Latin American countries.

View the full article at http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2010/100316.htm