Ancient Australian grass with 12 chromosomes holds clues for climate-resilient crops

Channel millet, a native Australian grass long used by the Mithaka people, has been found to carry twelve copies of its chromosomes, an unusual trait associated with domestication. Indigenous communities cultivated and relied on this grain for thousands of years, reflecting deep ecological knowledge of the land. The plant is naturally adapted to the extreme environmental cycles of the Channel Country desert region. Scientists believe its unique genetic structure contributes to its resilience, making it a promising candidate for developing future climate-resistant food crops. The findings highlight how ancient Aboriginal agricultural practices may hold valuable insights for modern food systems.