DNA project to improve crop yield

Scientists are using modern DNA techniques to make crops grown in the world's hottest and driest regions more resistant to drought.

Aberystwyth's Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research (Iger) is working on a new variety of the pearl millet plant grown in Africa and Asia.

In 2005 it developed the plant's DNA to make it more resistant to attack from a disease known as downy mildew.

Iger is working with scientists in India and Ghana on the latest project.

Iger has received a £700,000 grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Research Council and the UK's Department for International Development for the four-year project.

Pearl millet is the staple crop grown by farmers in the hottest and driest regions of sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian subcontinent.