Wheat genome may help tackle food shortages

BBC News reports that the sequencing project for the wheat genome is progressing well. Now UK scientists have released draft sequences of the wheat genome, which they think could make a vital contribution to securing global food supplies. The researchers also say their efforts could help British farmers to develop new strains with greater yields.  Wheat is regarded as one of the most important crops for human consumption not only in terms of human nutrition, but also in animal nutrition and the production of meat.  The results of the study, led by Neil Hall from the University of Liverpool, are available for public use.