Biotech Updates

Successful Field Trials of CSIRO Salt Tolerant Durum Wheat

April 30, 2010

Latest field trials of a genetically-engineered salt tolerant durum wheat outproduced existing varieties in saline soils. The GM wheat was produced by researchers form Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). It produced 25% more than the yield of the parent variety, Tamaroi, according to CSIRO scientist Dr. Richard James. Compared to bread wheat, durum wheat is less salt tolerant and it may also provide higher income for wheat producers because of its premium pasta making characteristics.

Salinity is one of the major environmental problems faced by wheat farmers in Australia. CSIRO research team led by Dr. Rana Munns explained that the salt tolerant genes (Nax1 and Nax2) work by inhibiting sodium from the leaves because it may be toxic to the wheat.

Read more at http://www.csiro.au/news/CSIRO-develops-highest-yielding-salt-tolerant-wheat.html.