The study shows the poplar tree has less DNA in its cells than humans or other mammals, but twice the number of genes. Researchers say that the information will be a significant advantage to understanding plant biology and evolution.

The forestry industry expects the data will help it improve the yield and quality of products like bioethanol.

?EUR??,,????'??Under optimal conditions, poplars can add a dozen feet of growth each year and reach maturity in as few as four years, permitting selective breeding for large-scale sustainable plantation forestry,?EUR??,,????'?? said Dr. Sam Foster of the US Forest Service. ?EUR??,,????'??This rapid growth coupled with conversion of the lignocellulosic portion of the plant to ethanol has the potential to provide a renewable energy resource along with a reduction of greenhouse gases.?EUR??,,????'??

Source: BBC News