Queensland grain growers are set to benefit from a new barley variety, after recent trials saw it producing 'unrivaled yields' in the northern cropping industry.
Australian Grain Technologies (AGT) announced the release of 'Yeti', which has demonstrated significantly higher yields of five to 13pc over some varieties currently grown in the northern region.
The variety was selected from advanced germplasm sourced by AGT from the University of Adelaide and is closely related to Compass, with trials including over four years of AGT yield evaluation and two years of National Variety Trials testing.
"Yeti shares the same grain characteristics as Compass, with high test weights and excellent grain size," AGT barley breeder Stewart Coventry said.
"However, it has a shorter plant height for improved standability - which is essential for growers to be able to make the most of the variety.
"Ultimately, that greater yield and reliability will translate into higher profits for growers who plant Yeti."
Mr Coventry said it had very low screenings losses, high retentions and a useful disease resistance profile, including good resistance to spot form net blotch.
AGT marketing manager for Northern NSW/Queensland Douglas Lush said Yeti will provide an outstanding option for our farmers in the northern region.
"For a variety to deliver high yields and good grain size in favourable years and then maintain that advantage through tough seasons is an outstanding feature," Mr Lush said.
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