The complete genome (pan-genome) of foxtail millet (Setaria italica) has been mapped by an international team of scientists led by Prof. Xianmin Diao of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Prof. Michael Purugganan of New York University & New York University Abu Dhabi. This large-scale genomic analysis will assist research on this crop, from understanding its evolution and domestication, to breeding new varieties to help ensure food security. Three articles describe this research, but first, the research article itself: Qiang He, Sha Tang, Hui Zhi, Jinfeng Chen, et al. "A graph-based genome and pan-genome variation of the model plant Setaria." Nature Genetics 55, 1232–1242 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-023-01423-w The 3 descriptions: * "NYUAD scientists: this common crop is key in food security: Teams from three international universities, including NYU Abu Dhabi, unlock the genome of the widely-used cereal crop," by Nadine Fares Kahil, WIRED Middle East, 26 July 2024 https://wired.me/science/foxtail-millets-battle-for-food-security/ * "Chinese scientists decipher genome secrets of foxtail millet," XinhuaNet, 2023-06-09 https://english.news.cn/20230609/4cd34198a85b4d9d9e9bea6d51a1f510/c.html * "Scientists Map Complete Genome of Millet: New knowledge of ancient grain may enable breeding for climate change adaptation ," NYU (News Release), 8 June 2023 https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2023/june/millet-genome.htm... The research "also constructed the first graph-based genome sequence of *Setaria*, offering insights into genomic variation across wild and cultivated *Setaria*." (NYU) Foxtail millet is NAMA's #milletofthemonth in March. It is the second or third most cultivated of the #millets worldwide, being an important staple in parts of Asia. In North America it currently tends to be grown as a cover crop or for forage. Don Osborn, PhD (East Lansing, MI, US - +1 202-621-3911) North American Millets Alliance