Recent studies on global food security and wheat production emphasize the impact of climate change on crop yields.

Rising temperatures and extreme heat stress can decrease global wheat yields, leading to potential food insecurity.

A recent genomic study of 827 wheat varieties from the Watkins Landrace Collection has uncovered a 'goldmine' of genetic diversity.

This collection, assembled nearly a century ago by British scientist Arthur Watkins, contains beneficial genes absent in modern wheat varieties.

Scientists aim to harness this diversity to cultivate wheat strains that are disease-resistant and require less nitrogen fertilizer.

Utilizing this genetic diversity could lead to more sustainable wheat cultivation practices, ensuring food security for the growing global population.

The study highlights the importance of preserving and utilizing genetic diversity in wheat breeding to combat climate change and maintain agricultural sustainability.