Researchers compiled a global database of grass blade sizes, the climates they grow in, and their evolutionary history.
One-third of Earth’s surface is covered by over 11,000 grass species — including wheat, corn, and rice, which are important crops and sources of biofuel.
The work will help improve agriculture and increase our knowledge of climate change. For example, smaller grass blades dominate in arid and cold environments. Narrow leaved grasses with high numbers of veins can better tolerate drier conditions expected in the future. Researchers also made thousands of measurements of grass veins. These distribute nutrients and water that leaves need to convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into sugar. Using computer models, researchers found that smaller grass blades have more large veins packed together, and can better resist drought and freezing.
The study suggests focusing on breeding grass varieties with smaller leaves and larger veins to better survive cold and drought.
Original article:
Size of grass blades offers better understanding of their vulnerability to climate change
Original study:
Developmental and biophysical determinants of grass leaf size worldwide