Salicornia genomes reveal genetic secrets to farming on salty land

A University of Newcastle-led global study has revealed the complete genetic blueprint of a salt-tolerant plant called Salicornia, which holds promise for growing food in harsh environments. Published in Nature Communications, the research sequenced the genomes of six Salicornia species and analyzed DNA from 318 plants worldwide.

The findings provide a foundation for developing crops that can thrive in salt-affected lands where conventional agriculture struggles. Dr. Vanessa Melino, plant scientist and study lead, highlighted the increasing challenge of freshwater scarcity due to climate change and population growth. Salicornia can grow in seawater and salty soils, offering a different path for food production.

The five-year project brought together 24 researchers from eight countries to understand the genetics behind Salicornia's salt tolerance. The study identified genes linked to salt tolerance, clarified species evolution, and created breeding-ready seed collections. It revealed that salt tolerance is more complex than a single gene, uncovering candidate genes involved in stress metabolism and salt sensing.

These discoveries have implications for improving Australia's native salt-tolerant plants, which could become future food crops.