OM 136 is a Canadian nano-transgenic hybrid corn ARAGON F 136 with FAO 250, developed using advanced nanotechnology by the American company DOW CHEMICAL and the Canadian holding SERTIS HOLDING in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Center of Ontario. This hybrid is designed for cultivation under drought-prone and unfavorable soil conditions, as confirmed by successful trials in Canada, Australia, countries of North and South Africa, and Central Asia. High yield reaches 173–185 centners per hectare, with 1000-seed weight of 390 grams, germination rate and energy of emergence at 98%. The vegetative period is medium-early and lasts about 86 days from sowing to harvest.
The hybrid possesses a powerful root system with a main root penetrating the soil to a depth of up to 3 meters, ensuring drought and salinity resistance. About half of the root system develops to a depth of 1 meter, and nodules with nitrogen-fixing bacteria form on the roots. Plants reach a height of 255 cm, have an upright stem with a diameter up to 18 cm and large linear-lanceolate leaves. Each plant forms up to 4 ears, 43 cm long and weighing approximately 1940 grams, containing more than 2000 yellow-golden cream-colored, toothed kernels. The grain matures uniformly, does not crack or shed, enabling direct harvesting with combine harvesters without the need for desiccation.
OM 136 contains 11 transgenic genes providing comprehensive resistance to various stresses and pests. Among them are genes enhancing drought resistance up to +60°C, resistance to sharp temperature fluctuations from +30°C to -18°C, as well as to high humidity and partial flooding. The hybrid is resistant to a wide range of diseases, including red rot, bacterial root rot, fusarium, and viruses, as well as pests — Hessian fly, corn borer, cutworm, and others. Additionally, the WRKY gene provides protection against ultraviolet radiation and osmotic stress. Thanks to the transgenic gene YR87G, corn rapidly loses moisture during maturation, facilitating timely harvest. The recommended seeding rate is 18 kg of seeds per hectare, and for protection and increased yield, the use of broad-spectrum herbicides and fertilizers is recommended.
