Global Cassava Germplasm Resources: Industrial and Technological Development

Abstract

The main cassava-producing regions include Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and China. Due to significant differences in natural environments, industrial backgrounds, and technological resources for germplasm development across these regions, the utilization of cassava germplasm resources shows regional variation. Currently, main approaches to cassava germplasm development and utilization include traditional breeding methods such as selective breeding, mutation breeding, and hybrid breeding, as well as modern techniques like marker-assisted selection, genome editing, and genetic modification. Regionally, Africa mainly focuses on developing germplasm resources that improve resistance to environmental stress, enhance nutritional content, and strengthen pest and disease resistance. South America primarily emphasizes cultivating edible cassava germplasm. Southeast Asia prioritizes screening high-quality germplasm and developing high-yield, high-starch, and disease-resistant varieties. China concentrates on germplasm development aligned with food security strategies and high-quality edible cassava varieties. In the future, modern breeding technologies will be vital in advancing cassava germplasm development and use. Disease and pest resistance traits will become essential qualities for high-quality cassava germplasm. Additionally, different major cassava-producing regions should tailor their germplasm development strategies to their specific industrial needs and regional characteristics.