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Delivering genetic innovations to farmers: Challenges and opportunities for accelerated varietal turnover
No full text16 page
Dissection of the genetic basis of genotype by environment interactions for morphological traits and protein content in winter wheat panel grown in Morocco and Spain
No full textTo fulfill the growing demand for wheat consumption, it is important to focus on enhancement breeding strategies targeting key parameters such as yield, thousand kernel weight (TKW), quality characteristics including morphological traits, and protein content. These elements are key to the ongoing and future objectives of wheat breeding programs. Prioritizing these factors will effectively help meet the rising demand for wheat, especially given the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns. This study evaluated the morphological traits and protein content of 249 winter wheat varieties and advanced lines grown in eleven different environments in Morocco and Spain incorporating three varied sowing dates. The results showed considerable variability in morphological traits and protein content. Significant correlations were observed among various grain traits, with most grain morphological parameters exhibiting negative correlations with protein content. Differences across environments (p <= 0.01) in all traits, genotypes, and genotype by environment interaction were significant. A factorial regression analysis revealed significant impacts of environmental conditions on all grain morphological parameters, protein content, and TKW during the three growth stages. The study identified several high-performing and stable genotypes across diverse environments, providing valuable insights for wheat breeding programs such as genotypes 129, 234, 241, and 243. Genome-Wide Association Studies pinpointed 603 significant markers across 11 environments, spread across chromosomes. Among these, 400 markers were linked with at least two traits or observed in at least two different environments. Moreover, twelve marker-trait associations were detected that surpassed the Bonferroni correction threshold. These findings highlight the importance of targeted breeding efforts to enhance wheat quality and adaptability to different environmental conditions
A wheat chromosome segment substitution line series supports characterization and use of progenitor genetic variation
No full textGenome-wide introgression and substitution lines have been developed in many plant species, enhancing mapping precision, gene discovery, and the identification and exploitation of variation from wild relatives. Created over multiple generations of crossing and/or backcrossing accompanied by marker-assisted selection, the resulting introgression lines are a fixed genetic resource. In this study we report the development of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) generated to systematically capture genetic variation from tetraploid (T. turgidum ssp. dicoccoides) and diploid (Aegilops tauschii) progenitor species. Generated in a common genetic background over four generations of backcrossing, this is a base resource for the mapping and characterization of wheat progenitor variation. To facilitate further exploitation the final population was genetically characterized using a high-density genotyping array and a range of agronomic and grain traits assessed to demonstrate the potential use of the populations for trait localization in wheat
Understanding Human-wildlife conflict and its impact on agroecology transition In Zimbabwe
No full textHuman-wildlife conflict (HWC) presents a critical challenge to agroecological transitions in Mbire District, where communities depend heavily on agriculture and cultural traditions such as wild harvest. Situated in a region with a rich biodiversity that includes elephants, lions, baboons, and crocodiles among other animals, Mbire's rural population faces frequent and often dangerous interactions with wildlife. These encounters not only endanger human lives and livestock but also disrupt crop production, compromising food security and stability in an area where agriculture sustains livelihoods and cultural practices. Wildlife intrusions devastate crop fields and imperil livestock, leading communities to adopt various mitigation strategies that range from traditional deterrent methods to collaboration with government agencies. However, these strategies are often limited by external policies and insufficient resources, exacerbating local frustrations and hardships. This report, part of BI-HUB TRUST contribution to the CGIAR Agroecology initiative, documents dialogues among community of elders and stakeholders, highlighting the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and the need for effective HWC solutions within agroecological transitions. The elders' dialogues, a central part of BIOHUB’s engagement, illustrate the community’s reliance on traditional spiritual practices to coexist with wildlife, drawing on rituals, ancestral guidance, and community-wide customs to maintain balance within their ecosystem. For instance, villagers employ traditional deterrents, such as burning elephant dung or constructing makeshift barriers, to minimize crop losses. These practices, however, are frequently insufficient in the face of increasing wildlife pressures, partly driven by land encroachment and ecological changes that disrupt natural wildlife habitats, compelling animals to venture closer to human settlements. The continuation of these traditional methods is hampered by legal and bureaucratic restrictions, as community members often lack authority to make immediate decisions about wildlife management. Government policies on wildlife conservation are perceived locally as favoring animal protection over human safety, thereby straining relations between conservation agencies and rural populations. These policies, which limit communities' capacity to manage wildlife, impede the development of local, context-specific solutions to HWC and hinder the progress of agroecological transitions. The report underscores that a successful agroecological transition in Mbire must address HWC by aligning national policy frameworks with community belief system, needs and fostering a collaborative approach that respects traditional knowledge. By integrating ecological stewardship with indigenous practices, the community dialogues reveal pathways towards more resilient agricultural systems that honor local cultural values, reduce wildlife conflicts, and support sustainable agricultural practices. This approach seeks to transform HWC from a source of division into a component of Mbire’s agroecological resilience, bolstering sustainable ecosystem and community cohesion.19 page
Chapter 1. Introduction to post-harvest challenges and innovations
No full textApproximately 14 percent of the food produced globally is lost during post-harvest stages before reaching retail stage (FAO, 2019a). Post-harvest losses (PHL) pose significant challenges for farmers in developing regions, particularly sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Food losses in SSA occur across a wide spectrum, including up to 50 percent of fruit and vegetables and 10 to 20 percent for grains and pulses (FAO, 2019a). In light of this, it is imperative to enhance efforts to reduce PHL, particularly among small-scale farmers. This urgency is driven by the need to bolster food availability and optimize resource utilization. Smallholder farmers, constituting the majority of farms, bear the greatest impact of PHL, underscoring the critical importance of targeted intervention. Developing smallholder agriculture through PHL mitigation can effectively reduce poverty and hunger in low-income countries. Experience has demonstrated that the causes of PHL are multifaceted and vary across different types of value chains. However, common contributing factors include insufficient investments to facilitate the adoption of improved technologies, inadequate post-harvest management practices and institutional weaknesses. Additionally, in SSA, there is a lack of well-developed mechanization hire services for post-harvest operations. This publication consists of seven chapters with primary focus on mitigating PHL in developing regions. It covers various produce such as roots and tubers, grains, fruits, and vegetables. The inclusion of case studies from the Green Innovation Centres (GIC) for the agriculture and food sector aims to showcase various innovations and their impact on post-harvest loss education, increased income and job creation. Additionally, this publication explores the role of gender in efforts to reduce loss, agribusiness and entrepreneurship, and climate change management in post-harvest and provides recommendations for further action.1-
Food systems accelerator report: Strengthening resilient Sasso poultry business enterprises in Murehwa District, Zimbabwe
No full text21 page
Flexible form factor for more accurate and less biased volumetric estimates: a case study of Eucalyptus spp.
No full textEucalyptus species are widely cultivated in Brazil due to their high productivity, relatively short rotation cycle, and the variety of products they offer. The estimation of tree volume is commonly done using the artificial form factor (real volume / cylinder volume). However, this method may result in inaccurate and biased estimates, leading to incorrect decisions in plantation management. This study describes a flexible form factor and some considerations for its implementation for different species. The Smalian method was used to determine the real volumes in 2198 Eucalyptus trees. The artificial form factor and the flexible form factor of Silva, Borders and Brister were estimated with their proportionality constants determined using probability density functions. The artificial form factor, estimated at 0.53, produced inaccurate and biased volume estimates, whereas the flexible form factor, with a constant of 0.55, produced accurate and unbiased estimates.62-7
Burden of selenium deficiency and cost-effectiveness of selenium agronomic biofortification of staple cereals in Ethiopia
No full textSelenium (Se) deficiency among populations in Ethiopia is consistent with low concentrations of Se in soil and crops that could be addressed partly by Se-enriched fertilisers. This study examines the disease burden of Se deficiency in Ethiopia and evaluates the cost-effectiveness of Se agronomic biofortification. A disability-adjusted life years (DALY) framework was used, considering goiter, anaemia, and cognitive dysfunction among children and women. The potential efficiency of Se agronomic biofortification was calculated from baseline crop composition and response to Se fertilisers based on an application of 10 g/ha Se fertiliser under optimistic and pessimistic scenarios. The calculated cost per DALY was compared against gross domestic product (GDP; below 1–3 times national GDP) to consider as a cost-effective intervention. The existing national food basket supplies a total of 28·2 µg of Se for adults and 11·3 µg of Se for children, where the risk of inadequate dietary Se reaches 99·1 %–100 %. Cereals account for 61 % of the dietary Se supply. Human Se deficiency contributes to 0·164 million DALYs among children and women. Hence, 52 %, 43 %, and 5 % of the DALYs lost are attributed to anaemia, goiter, and cognitive dysfunction, respectively. Application of Se fertilisers to soils could avert an estimated 21·2–67·1 %, 26·6–67·5 % and 19·9–66·1 % of DALY via maize, teff and wheat at a cost of US149·6–209·1 and US$99·3–181·6, respectively. Soil Se fertilisation of cereals could therefore be a cost-effective strategy to help alleviate Se deficiency in Ethiopia, with precedents in Finland.1110 - 112
The digital landscape in Eastern India: Findings from the digital needs assessment surveys from Bihar and Odisha, India
No full textThis report examines the digital landscape in the Eastern Indian states of Bihar and Odisha, focusing on disparities in digital access, literacy, and technology utilization. Using gender-disaggregated data from 1,034 households, the findings reveal significant gender, social, and regional inequities. Women, especially from marginalized communities, face reduced access to digital devices, limited operational skills, and low internet usage for agricultural needs. Key barriers include high device costs, limited digital literacy, and inadequate local-language content. Despite challenges, a strong demand for digital skills training emerges, particularly among women and younger populations. The current utilization of mobile internet primarily revolves around communication and entertainment, with minimal use for agriculture-related activities. The report underscores the necessity for tailored digital literacy programs, localized content, and affordable technology to bridge these divides. Addressing these gaps can enhance the adoption of digital tools, fostering inclusive growth and improved agricultural outcomes in the region.24 page