Formerly known as GrassRoots Pharmaceuticals, Inc. working in the bio-pharma space, GrassRoots Biotechnology, Inc., now functions as an agricultural biotechnology company, developing and commercializing biofuel, food, and industrial crops. In June 2013, GrassRoots Biotechnology, Inc. wsaa acquired by, and now operates as a subsidiary of Monsanto Company, among other things conducting research to create improved biofuels feed stocks, such as switchgrass and sorghum, which are biomass crops for the Southeast. working to create enhanced switchgrass crops. The firm is focused on two important switchgrass traits: rapid root establishment and greater root extension. The slow rate of switchgrass root establishment can delay harvest for up to three years. Rapid root establishment will speed the time to harvest. Greater root extension will increase the amount of carbon sequestration. This will provide switchgrass farmers added revenue in carbon credits and increase the value of switchgrass beyond simple biomass production.
