Resistance to biotic and abiotic stress in the Triticeae

Abstract

Poverty, hunger and malnutrition occur in many parts of the world despite the enormous progress that has taken place in agriculture and food production in the last century. It is estimated for wheat, that by 2020 the world will require a 60% increase in production to meet the projected requirement. Resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses will be critical in reaching this goal. Distinct advantages accompany the use of genetic resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The most important advantage is the fact that response to the stress situation occurs independently of the managerial ability, skill and resource level of the producer. Anyone can use a stress resistant crop. Immense progress has been made in the field of functional genomics and molecular manipulation. It is clear that the restraining factor in future will not be the availability of scientific techniques and tools, or for that matter, genetic resources; but the human and financial capacity to achieve the goals on a world-wide scale so that they really do make a difference to the livelihood of the poor. Triticeae form a meaningful proportion of staple and non-staple food crops around the world. To achieve world-wide food security in the future, Triticeae with resistance to stresses will have to play a major role. The future demands crops with stable yield irrespective of environmental constraints, good quality and a high nutritional value; crops that are free of pesticide residues and other harmful substances.