Induced Mutations in Connection with Biotechnology for Crop Improvement in Latin America


Objective:

To stimulate regional co-operation in the field of radiation induced mutations and related biotechnology for improving local cultivars through increased adaptability and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses.

Activities:

The CRP started in 1994 following the recommendation of plant breeders and geneticists involved in applications of mutation and related biotechnologies for crop improvement. Among the factors limiting crop production, the most important are: soil aluminum toxicity, salinity, drought, lack of available phosphorous in soil, and disease and pest susceptibility. Modern biotechnology, including induced mutations, offers considerable possibilities to breed desired varieties in a relatively short time. Additionally, both these techniques can be used for breeding some vegetatively propagated crops, which until now were improved by selection from natural or cultivated populations.

The final RCM was held at the National Agricultural University La Molina, Lima, Peru. More than 16 scientists from 8 countries took part in the RCM. On the basis of presented papers it is possible to state that induced mutation have become a frequently used tool to generate biodiversity in such countries of the Region as Costa Rica, Cuba, Brazil, Guatemala, Peru and Uruguay. Leading institutes from these countries have already moved to the application of mutation techniques in connection with modern biotechnology. This indicates that the main objective of this CRP was fully met. The CRP also brought significant results in development of new technologies/approaches and in the generation of the desired diversity for breeding programmes.

New methodologies/approaches:

Induced diversity for breeding:
The widely demonstrated usefulness of induced mutants in crop breeding programmes stimulated plant breeders from the Region to organize collections of valuable mutants. This activity was already initiated in a few countries but it should be expected that during the next few years more mutant collections will be established throughout the Region. Successful implementation of the ARCAL XXIa project has definitely increased the interest of breeders in conservation of mutated germplasm. Nevertheless, the number of mutants already kept in working collections is significant and could also be a valuable source of markers for genomic research:

Participants:

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Reports:

Project Officer:

P.J.L. Lagoda