Russian Scientists from Novosibirsk Have Bred a New Variety of Miscanthus

The scientists of the Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, have bred a new variety of miscanthus. The plant has unique properties – it generates a big quantity of valuable cellulose.

The new variety of plant will allow to reduce deforestation and meet Russian demands for cellulose. In fact, this cropcan even replace cotton, says Radio Siberia.

"This plant is a source of high-quality cellulose, which is a part of cells of all higher plants. You can use it anywhere: in production of paper, plastic, biofuel, lactic acid, and even gunpowder", the academician of the RAS Vladimir Shumny told.

Today the institute has a miscanthus plantation of about 40 hectares. To meet Russian demands for cellulose, two million hectares are needed.

Miscanthus grows on soils not suitable for other crops, even on sodic soils. This is a perennial plant which can grow in one place for 20 years.