Australia’s wheat yields stalled
Australia’s average wheat yields, which had more than tripled due to technological advances between 1900 and 1990, did not increase from 1990 to 2015.
Popping the cork on sparkling wine research
Tasmanian wine producers will sample and provide tasting notes on sparkling wines produced as part of a Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) research project looking at the impact of vineyard treatments on sparkling wine characteristics.
Designer rice could help beat diabetes, cancer and obesity
Scientists have discovered a way to increase the production of resistant starch in rice, which could have beneficial health consequences for more than half of the world’s population.
When cabbages get stressed they adopt human solutions
Plants get stressed and send defensive signals in the same way humans do, researchers from The University of Queensland have found.
Victorian CO2 bug research on the world stage
Victorian research on the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on pest insects will be revealed at the International Congress of Entomology in America.
Research showing early sowing pays off
Pairing long fallowing with the early sowing of wheat is proving to be a successful combination when it comes to maximising crop yield potential.
Sunraysia flies blow honeybee pollination trend
A study commissioned by Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation) and its partners has shown that blow flies in the Sunraysia region are the chief pollinators of avocados, despite bee hives regularly featuring in orchards.
Genetic bee research paves the way to sweeten imports plan
Beekeepers are a step closer to protecting themselves from the devastating Varroa mite, with a new test likely to allow imports of honey bee semen from resistant breeding stock without putting the industry at risk from another pest – Africanised bees.
New chilli pathogens discovered in Australia
Scientists have identified four new pathogens previously not found in Australian chillies, raising the stakes for the country’s quarantine and disease resistance efforts.
The eyes have it: revealing secrets of cow emotions
Cows that pass you on the right might be giving you the “evil eye”, according to an international study that could help cattle breeders reduce animal stress and anxiety levels.
Fresh vegetables key to happiness
The fastest route to happiness may be through the veggie patch, with a study indicating that consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables can substantially increase consumers’ happiness levels.
Sowing strategies could boost crop yields on sandy soils
Research is demonstrating the potential for sowing strategies to significantly improve crop productivity on sandy soils in the southern cropping region.