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UT researchers published a Jan. 27 analysis on the DNA sequence of switchgrass, a plant which could be a promising, environmentally-friendly fuel source that does not emit carbon dioxide into the air.
Switchgrass is a sturdy perennial having deep roots and grows throughout the country from Canada to Mexico. It is a crucial component of the tallgrass prairie habitats of central North America. It has the ability to reach heights measuring 12 feet in certain regions and is utilized to regulate erosion, as a game cover, and as food for cattle at times. However, it can be most significantly used as a source of biofuel, which is a critical component to reduce atmospheric carbon levels and fighting climate change. The study’s utmost aim is to develop high-yielding varieties of switchgrass that ...
January 28, 2021 A field technician wrestling a large switchgrass plant during fall harvest (photo credit: Jason Bonnette). A Washington State University researcher is part of a large team that announced the genome sequence for switchgrass, a major bioenergy crop. Laura Bartley, an associate professor in WSU’s Institute of Biological Chemistry, worked for 15 years on the project, which could lead to larger, easier to process switchgrass plants. “Making switchgrass cultivars more economically successful and competitive is a key to decreasing our dependence on fossil fuels,” Bartley said....
Key Switchgrass Genes Identified, Which Could Mean Better Biofuels Ahead Details 27 January 2021 Share This Biologists believe they are one step closer to a long-held goal of making a cheap, widely available plant a source for energy and fuel, meaning one of the next big weapons in the battle against climate change may be able to trace its roots to the side of a Texas highway. Biologists believe they are one step closer to a long-held goal of making a cheap, widely available plant a source for energy and fuel, meaning one of the next big weapons in t...