Leymus racemosus

Leymus racemosus, known as mammoth wild rye, is a perennial grass native to regions across Europe, Asia, New Zealand, and parts of North America. It has culms measuring 50–100 cm in length and 10–12 mm in diameter.

As wheat faces increasing demand due to population growth, challenges like biotic and abiotic stresses threaten production. Leymus racemosus, an evolutionary relative of wheat, offers solutions through genetic contributions.

Leymus genes enhance wheat's heat stress tolerance, crucial for tropical climates where high temperatures (28–32°C) can reduce yields by 20%. This is linked to chloroplast membrane disruption during photosynthesis.

The plant also improves resistance against Fusarium Head Blight, a fungal disease exacerbated by climate change. Incorporating Leymus genes increases wheat's resilience to this infection.

Additionally, Leymus genes aid in mitigating aluminum toxicity in soil, which affects 40% of arable land. These genes prevent root growth reduction, enhancing tolerance to such stress.

Leymus racemosus further contributes to reducing nitrogen levels via biological nitrification inhibition, offering a natural solution to nitrogen pollution without artificial intervention.

Overall, integrating Leymus racemosus genes into wheat cultivars addresses multiple environmental and climatic challenges, supporting global food security.