The need for a comprehensive plant breeding strategy

Abstract

After an introductory section on population growth, world food supply and sustainable agriculture, the role that plant breeding can play in securing world food supply and sustainable agricultural systems is discussed with reference to: (1) breeding strategy and resource allocation; (2) marker assisted selection in short-term variety development; (3) intermediate- to long-term population improvement; (4) long-term genetic resources development; (5) novel, genetically engineered male sterility systems; and (6) the likely impact of genetic engineering. It is concluded that despite the importance of biotechnology and genetic engineering in plant breeding and agriculture, they will not replace traditional plant breeding methodology, nor diminish its value: a balanced approach to plant breeding is required. To develop sustainable agricultural systems, crop rotations with a diversity of crops, including new industrial crops, are needed, to which should be added integrated pest control