CROP VARIETY IMPROVEMENT .pptx

1. CROP VARIETY IMPROVEMENT

2. High crop yields rely on selecting varieties with beneficial traits such as: Disease resistance Response to fertilizers Product quality High yield potential Hybridization is a method used to incorporate desirable characteristics by crossing genetically different plants: Intervarietal : Crossing different varieties Interspecific : Crossing different species within the same genus Intergeneric : Crossing different genera Genetic modification is another approach, where specific genes are introduced to provide desired characteristics.For new crop varieties to be widely adopted, they must produce high yields under diverse environmental conditions. SELECTING CROP VARITES FOR GOOD YEILD

3. For new crop varieties to gain acceptance, they must deliver high yields across diverse environmental conditions. Farmers require access to high-quality seeds that are uniform, belonging to a single variety, and that can reliably germinate under consistent conditions. This ensures stable and predictable crop performance, helping farmers achieve optimal productivity regardless of regional differences.

4. RESILIENT CROP VARIETIES FOR UNPREDICTABLE CONDITIONS Crop yield and cultivation practices are closely linked to factors like weather, soil quality, and water availability. Because weather events like droughts and floods are unpredictable, crop varieties that can thrive in various climates are especially valuable. Additionally, varieties that tolerate high soil salinity have been developed to further enhance resilience and adaptability in challenging environments .

5. KEY FACTORS IN CROP VARIETY IMPROVEMENT Higher Yield : Improving the yield per acre is a primary goal, as it directly impacts productivity and food supply. Breeding for high-yield varieties helps farmers maximize output and meet demand with fewer resources . Improved Quality : Quality traits vary by crop type and purpose. For example: Wheat : Good baking quality for bread and other products. Pulses : High protein content to meet dietary needs. Oilseeds : Enhanced oil quality for better taste, nutrition, and shelf life. Fruits and Vegetables : Good preserving quality to extend freshness and

6. Biotic and Abiotic Resistance : Yield can be affected by biotic factors (like diseases, insects, and nematodes) and abiotic factors (such as drought, salinity, waterlogging, heat, cold, and frost). Developing varieties that resist these stresses helps ensure stable crop production under varied and challenging conditions. Change in Maturity Duration : Shorter maturity periods are beneficial as they: Allow multiple cropping cycles within a single year, increasing overall productivity. Lower production costs due to reduced time in the field. Simplify harvests with uniform crop maturity, reducing losses and making it easier to plan and manage farm operatio ns.

7. Wider Adaptability: Varieties that perform well across different climates and soil types stabilize yields across regions and seasons, providing more consistent production despite environmental variability. Desirable Agronomic Characteristics: Specific traits can improve growth efficiency and yield, such as: Fodder Crops: Tallness and extensive branching, which provide more biomass. Cereal Crops: Dwarf varieties are preferred as they require fewer nutrients, reducing input costs and increasing resource efficiency.