GM rice thrives in phosphorus-poor soils

[alp227]

A gene from wild Indian rice plants can significantly raise the yield of common varieties in nutrient-poor soils.

Scientists from the International Rice Research Institute (Irri) identified a gene that helps uptake of phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium, and transferred it into commercial strains.

Their yield was about 60% above normal in phosphorus-poor soils, the team reports in the journal Nature.

Large swathes of Asia have soil that is phosporus-deficient.

Full: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-19336653

[midnight]

1. This is really great news in the face of food shortages, and drought..

I looked at this link and was listening about a crop that India imports, chick peas, and will help give them more food security...And income for farmers to send their children to school..

http://www.generationcp.org/impact