Scientists publish first wheat genome

A CONSORTIUM of scientists have published the first genome for wheat, an achievement that should benefit food security challenged by Earth’s surging population, climate change and an emerging plant pest.

British researchers said they had unravelled 95% of the genetic code for a benchmark variety of wheat known as Chinese Spring line 42.

The draft has been placed in the public domain to help spurresearch into improving wheat yields and strengthening resilience to disease, water stress and insects.