Researchers in Tunisia have sequenced the complete genomes of two iconic durum wheat landraces, Mahmoudi and Chili, revealing a wealth of genetic traits that could help protect global wheat production amid climate change.
The landraces are living archives of Tunisia’s agricultural history, culinary tradition and genetic resilience. For generations, Tunisian farmers have grown Mahmoudi and Chili for their exceptional grain quality, drought tolerance and disease resistance.
The Mahmoudi and Chili landraces are becoming critical global resources for researchers and breeders working to develop more climate-resilient wheat varieties, according to a press release.
Using cutting-edge sequencing technologies, Tunisian scientists generated comprehensive genomic sequences for both landraces, offering an unprecedented look at their genetic makeup and untapped potential. The genomic data is freely available through the OpenDurumGPT platform on Zenodo, enabling scientists worldwide to explore and use these genetic resources.
The project was a collaboration between the Higher Institute of Biotechnology at the University of Sfax and the National Gene Bank of Tunisia, with support from GetGenome, a non-profit organization based at The Sainsbury Laboratory in Norwich, U.K.
“Sequencing the genomes of these two Tunisian durum wheat landraces is a groundbreaking step,” said Moez Hanin, Professor at the Higher Institute of Biotechnology (University of Sfax) and leader of the DurumGPT project. “Mahmoudi and Chili will be key to developing more climate-resilient wheat in our country, while honouring the wisdom of Tunisian farmers who have nurtured these varieties for centuries.”
Brande Wulff, Associate Professor at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology said that durum wheat has shaped Tunisia’s fields, kitchens, and culture for centuries. “By sequencing Mahmoudi and Chili, we are preserving a living heritage and strengthening the resilience of a staple that underpins both food security and national identity.”
