UK researchers develop new drought resistant strain of vital crop, pearl millet

Published Nov 15, 2022

Tridge summary

Researchers at Aberystwyth University have developed a new variety of pearl millet, a crop commonly used in Africa and South Asia, that is more drought resistant and has a low glycemic index. The new strain, which has been successfully trialed in Niger, is now ready for wider use. Pearl millet is already known for its drought resistance, making it a staple in many African countries, but climate change has reduced agricultural productivity on the continent by 34%. The low glycemic index of the new strain makes it beneficial for people with diabetes, as it gradually releases blood sugar into the bloodstream.

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Original content

British researchers have developed a new drought resistant strain of pearl millet to help farmers prepare for weather disruptions. The crop, developed at Aberystwyth University, is set to help African farmers feed people in the face of climate change. Pearl millet is a naturally drought resistant cereal crop that is a staple in many African countries, as well as in India and South Asia. A recent report by the World Meteorological Organisation estimated that increased temperatures have already reduced Africa’s agricultural productivity by 34%, with more droughts forecast in the future. Following successful trials of the new strain of the crop in Niger, researchers say the seed is now ready for wider use. Rattan Yadav, Professor of Plant Genetics at Aberystwyth University, led the research and has been working on developing the crop since 1996. “Pearl millet is a crop that already feeds people in places with some of the most marginal agricultural land in the world," he said. "This ...

Source: FarmingUK