Jointed goatgrass, though considered a pesky weed, could turn out to be a game-changer for wheat farming. Researchers in Germany are exploring how this resilient plant can help create stronger, safer wheat crops.
Known scientifically as Aegilops cylindrica, this plant is a close relative of wheat and is listed as an invasive species in California. What makes it stand out is its resistance to Zymoseptoria tritici, a fungus that is a major threat to wheat. A 2020 study revealed that this fungus can lead to up to 50% yield losses for farmers in Europe, a significant impact on food supply.
Scientists from the Botanical Institute and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology aim to unlock the secrets of goatgrass’s resilience. If their research succeeds, we could see wheat crops that are more resistant to disease, potentially reducing the need for harmful fungicides.
Corresponding author Eva Stukenbrock shared her excitement, stating that goatgrass provides “entirely new insights into plant immunity.” The research team is investigating how fungal immunity begins at the stomatal openings—tiny pores where pathogens enter plants. They are exploring how Z. tritici can hinder wheat’s immune response, while goatgrass appears to combat this interference.
This discovery opens new avenues for plant breeders. “It offers new targets for enhancing resistance,” Stukenbrock noted, hinting at more sustainable farming practices.
According to Statista, the world consumed nearly 884 million tons of wheat in 2024/2025. Wheat is not just a staple; it’s also important for healthy diets. Harvard Medical School notes that plant-based diets can lower the risks of heart disease and diabetes, contributing to better health outcomes.
However, fungicides used to protect crops can threaten soil health and may be linked to health problems like breast cancer. This makes the development of disease-resistant crops even more vital.
Innovations in genetic engineering are already being utilized in other crops like rice and apples, showing promise for the future of agriculture.
This research could pave the way for durable wheat varieties capable of resisting the world’s most challenging plant diseases. By learning more about the interaction between plants and pathogens, we can work towards a more reliable food supply for everyone.
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