A new study reveals that plastic, even under best practices, contaminates soils with macro- and microplastics, harming critical soil functions. Sampling 12 California farms, researchers found significant plastic debris. To protect soil health and productivity, biodegradable alternatives to plastic mulch are urgently needed.
Barley plants produce unique antifungal compounds called hordedanes to defend against pathogens. Scientists identified 17 hordedanes that inhibit fungal growth, but a pathogen, Bipolaris sorokiniana, exploits these defenses to thrive. By neutralizing hordedanes, it extends its parasitic phase, showcasing the complex evolutionary battle between plants and pathogens.
Researchers have achieved the most detailed genome assembly of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus) to date, creating a chromosome-scale reference genome. This resource could revolutionize breeding for climate-smart agriculture. With improved accuracy, the genome reveals insights into drought resilience and supports development of safer, more sustainable crop varieties.
Certification empowers producers to meet international quality, safety, and sustainability standards, expanding their market access. It assures consumers of ethical and environmentally friendly practices, supporting food safety and product reliability. Training programs also guide farmers in certification requirements, building trust, fostering sustainable agriculture, and enhancing competitiveness in the global marketplace.
A study reveals that treed field borders around crops significantly boost populations of hoverflies—key insects for pollination and pest control. Compared to grassy borders, treed edges supplied over 33 times more hoverflies, supporting crop yields and pest reduction. This strategy aids sustainable agriculture while enhancing biodiversity.
A growing push for agricultural modernization is addressing the need for sustainable practices and climate change adaptation. Many farmers lack access to relevant knowledge, hindering progress. Educational initiatives offering courses on sustainable farming and modern production methods aim to bridge this gap, enhancing productivity, sustainability, and profitability across the agri-food sector.
Researchers have uncovered genetic traits in wild tomatoes, specifically *Solanum pimpinellifolium*, that enhance salt stress tolerance. By analyzing plant vigor, shoot mass, and transpiration rates, they identified new genes linked to resilience in salty soils. These findings could inform breeding strategies to create more salt-tolerant crops, boosting agricultural sustainability.
Researchers have significantly improved maize transformation efficiency using ternary vectors and morphogenic regulators. This advancement enhances gene-editing research and potential agricultural applications by overcoming a major bottleneck in maize transformation frequency.
Scientists have developed drought and salt-resistant tomato plants by discovering a new stress-response mechanism. By engineering these plants to produce a synthetic molecule that activates this mechanism, they enhance the plants’ resilience. This breakthrough could ensure stable tomato production despite adverse climate conditions, supporting global food security.
A recent survey of over 4,500 Americans reveals that increased knowledge about gene editing correlates with greater acceptance of its safety for agricultural and medical applications. The study emphasizes the need for effective science communication to shift public opinion, highlighting a general preference for gene editing over genetic modification.
