Gene discovery may lead to high-yielding hybrid wheats

Melbourne: Australian researchers have identified a naturally occurring wheat gene that, when turned off, eliminates self-pollination but still allows cross- pollination, opening the way for high-yielding hybrid wheats.

The discovery and the associated breeding technology have the potential to radically change the way wheat is bred internationally, researchers said.

"Wheat is the world's most widely grown crop, delivering around 20 per cent of total food calories and protein to the world's population," said Ryan Whitford, from the University of Adelaide.