We have talked a lot about various research that tries to find methods of making crop yield more efficient. These studies usually attempt to discover something they believe can be done experimentally to produce more crops. Well, the U.S. Corn Belt has had a significant yield increase over the past few decades, and this led research in a different direction; instead of focusing on what may increase yield, scientists focused on what physiological aspects of plant growth led to the yield increase in the Corn Belt.

Collaboration between American scientists and Australian scientists from the University of Queensland focused on the changes in leaves and roots to see what led to the yield increase. They noticed that the angle of the leaves changed to provide more efficient photosynthesis, which led to an increase in biomass, and changes in root growth allowed for higher water uptake.

Ultimately the root changes were found to be the leading cause of increase yield. This research is extremely important as it provides a mechanistic basis for increasing the yield of numerous other plants. The research authors anticipate these findings will help to increase crop growth across the globe.

Discussion Question: What else, besides root growth and leaf angle, can make plant growth more efficient?

News Article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090316133429.htm
Scientific Article: http://crop.scijournals.org/cgi/content/full/49/1/299