Next-Generation N-Smart Varieties

Advancing cereal and cover crop varieties that improve nitrogen-use efficiency and reduce nitrous oxide emission through biological nitrification inhibition.

BNI Sorghum

We are advancing sorghum varieties with biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) traits to improve nitrogen retention and fertilizer-use efficiency. Nitrogen losses are driven in part by nitrification and related microbial transformations that convert applied nitrogen into more mobile forms, increasing the risk of loss from the field. While producers often rely on fertilizer products that include synthetic nitrification inhibitors, BNI offers a plant-enabled approach in which roots release natural compounds that slow nitrification. Building on this concept, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research–led team is leveraging the genetic diversity of wild sorghum relatives to introduce nitrogen-saving traits into commercial hybrids. The project aims to reduce fertilizer requirements, lower production costs for growers, and deliver environmental benefits by decreasing nitrogen losses from agricultural systems.

Why BNI Matters

Enhances nitrogen retention

line through nitrogen fertilizer clip art

Reduces fertilizer inputs

Decreases nitrous oxide emissions

Supports water quality

Project Highlight: DOE ARPA-E TEOSYNTE

Funded by a U.S. Department of Energy ARPA-E award under the TEOSYNTE program, our research integrates advanced breeding, plant physiology, microbiology, and genetic engineering to develop nitrogen-use efficient sorghum grown for grain-based bioenergy production.