US researchers create nitrogen-fixing maize

New era for eco-friendly crops unveiled

Researchers from the University of Georgia and the University of Wisconsin have developed maize varieties that can self-fertilize by fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere. This development is part of a broader effort to reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers, which are costly and environmentally damaging.

The discovery was inspired by traditional maize varieties in Sierra Mixe, Mexico, known for their unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. This capability is enhanced by aerial roots that harbor nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Building on this, Professor Jean-Michel Ané and his team are applying these traits to commercially viable crop varieties.

Professor Jason Wallace notes, "Even a 5% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer usage can significantly benefit the environment and improve farmer profitability, especially in areas where the cost of fertilizer is prohibitively high."

The research team is also exploring similar traits in sorghum, with findings indicating that these crops can significantly reduce the need for added fertilizers by harnessing their nitrogen directly from the environment. This innovation represents a transformative step forward in creating more sustainable agricultural practices globally.

This ongoing research not only supports environmental sustainability but also provides a tangible solution for improving food security and reducing the agricultural sector's carbon footprint.