The challenge
Solving the issue of low yields in harvestable seed
Unimproved Phalaris has deficiencies such as the tendency to shed seeds and have low yields of harvestable seed. Our plant breeders identified a need for improved Phalaris varieties that would overcome these characteristics and be more productive, persistent, and hardy for the grazing industries of Australia.
Our response
Improved Phalaris varieties
Our Phalaris breeding program commenced in the late 1950s and conducted the most effort globally for many decades. Improved varieties were released that successfully extended the potential adaption zones of Phalaris and improved its seasonal growth, grazing tolerance, persistence, seed production and grazing productivity. This was achieved through the discovery and exploitation of new domestication, production and persistence traits.
The results
More productive and profitable landscapes
Our improved Phalaris varieties have been widely adopted across the Australian landscape. It is estimated that between 1990 and 2020, 4.4 million kilograms of certified CSIRO Phalaris seed has been sold, equating to approximately 1.48 million hectares.
A recent evaluation found that the program has delivered significant benefits to date and has the potential to provide $5,163 million in first round economic impact (present value terms) between 1989 and 2039. This significant return is reflective of the long investment period delivering realised and prospective benefits across at least five decades. Benefits are also expected through mitigation of farm enterprise risk and through a number of ecosystem services including improved ground cover and deep drainage.