New mutant plants offer hope for drought-stricken regions worldwide!
Scientists have found mutants in various legumes that are resistant to drought, making them valuable for improving crops. For example, a high-yielding fodder lupine from Russia and an alkaloidless Lupinus luteus strain have increased drought resistance. Vigna radiata from India is tolerant to drought, and an EMS-induced mutant shows early maturity and higher yields. A Pisum mutant from Germany showed high drought resistance in India, and an Indian rye grass mutant can withstand high temperatures and drought better than the original variety.