10
May
2013
A new study by scientists from the University of
Aberdeen, the James Hutton Institute and Rothamsted
Research revealed that plants warn each other of the
danger of aphid attack through underground fungal
networks. The study of bean plants was the first to
reveal plants’ ability to communicate underground in
this way.
This research changes our understanding of the ways in
which living things interact with one another. If crops
can be managed in a way that optimises this natural
communication channel, there is scope to develop a
new weapon in the battle against insect pests.
June
2013
A new, free soil carbon app was launched to provide
farmers with a quick, cost-effective source of
information about the organic matter content of their
soil. The app, known as SOCiT (Soil Organic Carbon
information), provides information that can help
farmers and others improve their understanding of
soil condition and quality, and therefore, make better
management decisions. SOCiT was developed in
partnership with Quality Meat Scotland.
Carbon storage in soils can help mitigate the effects
of climate change by removing carbon dioxide from
the atmosphere. To enable farmers to increase carbon
storage, it is important to have the ability to readily
monitor their soils. SOCiT meets this important need.
Events of the Year
“The Scottish Government’s Common
Agricultural Policy reform proposals are
supported by agricultural research experts
at the James Hutton Institute”
11
June
2013
for Aberdeenshire farm
Soil from a farm near Fyvie in Aberdeenshire won the
inaugural Best Soil in Show award at the 2013 Royal
Highland Show. The James Hutton Institute launched
Best Soil in Show to highlight the importance of soils
and to coincide with the Year of Natural Scotland.
Samples were drawn from farms across Scotland and
Millbrex Farm was judged the winner.
Effective soil management is vital to both food
production and conservation of natural capital. Soils
are essential to the delivery of many basic biological
and ecological benefits.
Scientists from the University of Dundee and the
James Hutton Institute unveiled a series of living
displays which explain the role of genes and genetics
at the University’s Botanic Garden. The idea behind
this effort is to educate visitors on the role plants play
in understanding genetics and, in turn, how genetics
are crucial to understanding variation in organisms.
The Genetics Garden was opened by the esteemed
plant biologist Richard Flavell, Chief Scientific Officer
at Ceres Inc., California. Professor Flavell was visiting
Dundee to deliver the annual Distinguished Lecturer
in Plant Sciences seminar, organised by the Division of
Plant Sciences and the James Hutton Institute.
Establishing the Genetics Garden involved a volunteer
effort of over 40 people, from the Division of Plant
Sciences, the James Hutton Institute and the general
public during various outreach activities. It will help
members of the public understand the important role
genes play in plant science.
July
2013
a long-
term strategy
Findings of the PARABAN project, a three year study
into the control of Johne’s disease, revealed it is
possible to significantly reduce on-farm infection.
However, this often requires a long-term, strategic
approach to disease control and the commitment
of the farmer and his vet. Researchers at the James
Hutton Institute proved there was an environmental
link as the pathogen that causes Johne’s can survive
in soil.
Johne’s is a major wasting disease of cattle. The
project provides new guidance and advice for farmers
to help avoid Johne’s in their cattle and prevent further
spread of the disease.
“A new and innovative garden
is educating the general public
on genes and their important
role in plant science”
