Diversifying farming systems is key to building long-term sustainability and profitability on Western Australian farms, especially in response to a drying, warming climate.
Native legumes offer a promising path for diversification. With natural adaptations to local soils and climatic conditions, they could be well-suited for integration into farming systems as alternative grain crops and pastures. But turning a native species into a viable crop involves careful, multi-stage research.
PhD candidate Selassie Ahiakpa, from Curtin University, is exploring this potential through a research project supported by a bursary from the South-West WA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (SW WA Hub).
“Last spring, I collected samples of native legumes and I’m now establishing a living germplasm using cuttings and seed,” Selassie said.
“A key aspect of my research is farmer participation. Farmers can contribute to the study by growing these species on their properties and providing feedback on their performance.”
To find out more or express interest in collaborating, contact Selassie at e.ahiakpa@postgrad.curtin.edu.au or visit the project page.
