Genetic modification of corn has led to the development of shorter varieties to counteract environmental challenges and improve yields. These varieties stemmed from research initiated after windstorms destroyed significant corn production. By removing height-promoting genes while enhancing traits like leaf density and kernel formation, researchers have created promising short varieties that are currently undergoing trials on 300 farms. These shorter plants offer advantages such as better growth, improved pollination, and adaptability to different conditions, potentially making them favorable for farmers with limited space.
Short corn has a dense stature, with decreased space between leaf internodes (where the leaves grow from the stems). This makes silks grow closer together, giving them an easier time taking in pollen, which ultimately leads to better pollination and potentially higher yields.
In trials that have been in play for a few years now, scientists removed genes that engender height in plants, while keeping those that promote higher production, leaf density, and kernel formation. This resulted in the short varieties that are in trials among 300 farms today.
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