Team of 18 Indian scientists contributed in decoding of Chromosome 2A of wheat genome.
Project was financially supported by Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology.
Significance of Complex Wheat Genome Decoding
Research shows that bread wheat has complex hexaploid genome which is 40 times larger than that of rice genome & 5 times larger than human genome.
Information generated by decoded wheat genome will help to identify genes controlling complex agronomic traits such as yield, grain quality, resistance to diseases & pests as well as tolerance to drought, heat, water logging & salinity.
Availability of high quality reference genome will accelerate breeding of climate-resilient wheat varieties to feed ever-increasing world population & help address global food security in decades to come.