One of the world’s important food crops are threatened by drought but the solution lies possibly in the first step of production, according to a recent study by the University of Indiana.
The study, entitled “Global synthesis of drought effects on food legume production” which was published in scientific journal PLOS ONE, suggested that it is the time to prioritize the development of legume species that are drought-resistant.
Through this, the impacts of water scarcity and the changing climate can be lessened, if not mitigated.
Legumes are important fixtures in food security, especially among developing countries. Peas, beans, and peanuts, among others, are grown in any country with region-specific climate.
According to the Food and Agricultural Organization, these food crops are important in maintaining good health and fighting malnutrition.
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Usually planted in small-scale gardens, legumes together with basic crops offer “great potential” in improving food security and decreasing micronutrient deficiencies in grassroots communities.
Peanuts, pigeon pea, and lentils are more likey to yield more when planted in drought conditions. Meanwhile, the common bean – also called string bean – was found to be more sensitive to drought.
Because of this, the study emphasized the importance of selection and promotion of drought-resistant legume species as a way to lessen the impact of droughts.
The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion and analysis. Read full, original post: Growing drought-resistant crops key to fixing food insecurity – study
