Texas A&M University scientists displayed a genetically engineered crop of sorghum Tuesday that they say will be a more efficient and economical option to corn in drier areas as the world searches for alternative energy sources.

Sorghum, which as a plant resembles stalks of corn, is a centuries-old grain common around the world but has been used more in North America as a livestock feed. At Texas A&M, researchers have been working over the past several years to extend its growing season, allowing it to double its height to more 4.5 metres, thicken its stalk and be even more drought tolerant.

The genetic changes make it ideal to raise in areas such as the South and Southeast parts of the United States, where the growing season already is longer than in northern sections of the country. The climate also makes sorghum a more suitable crop than corn, which has emerged as a biofuel alternative used in ethanol production, particularly in the Midwest.

Economic fuel source

The cellulose from one version of the sorghum and sugar from another version can similarly be processed for fuel. Researchers said energy yields could top those from corn and at a more reasonable cost, making it an economic windfall for farmers.

"For decades, we have depended on what's below the ground for our nation's energy, and now we can turn to what's above the ground," Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples said after a briefing and tour of A&M agriculture and biofuel labs. "With the yields that are being forecast, with the continual growing season in certain parts of Texas and in particular the lower water usage, it offers great promise."

Some of the new crop could allow for as many as three harvests annually in areas like the Texas Rio Grande Valley.

"Agriculture already has been highly successful in providing this nation and the people with an abundant supply of food, feed and fibre," said Undersecretary of Agriculture Gale Buchanan, who also participated in the half-day briefing. "I'm equally convinced it will be just as successful adding energy to that portfolio."

About 15 per cent of the domestic grain sorghum crop already goes into ethanol production, according to the National Sorghum Producers, an industry trade group.

Bill Rooney, an associate professor and co-ordinator of the A&M sorghum breeding and genetics program, said he hopes to have the genetically engineered crop commercially available in three years. Petrochemical companies already have been to College Station to discuss their interest.