Unleashing the potential of Restorer-of-fertility proteins for hybrid crops

Crops make an important contribution to the Australian economy both regionally and nationally, but yields are stagnating. Hybrid varieties are expected to demonstrate higher and more stable yields, as observed in crops such as maize and canola. This project aims to facilitate the rapid identification of restorer genes for the development of hybrid varieties in crops, leveraging this potential. The economic benefit of hybrid varieties tailored to the challenges of the Australian climate, particularly for crucial crops like wheat, is expected to be significant. The methodology employed in this project will be applicable to other cereals such as barley and sorghum, both major staples contributing to Australian agricultural exports. The societal benefit of these advancements will be realized through more sustainable yields, ensuring enhanced food and market security in the future. Additionally, this project will foster collaborative activities between major research institutes in