Genetic erosion of diversity in cereals

Abstract

Cereals play an important role in human nutrition. Consequently, one of the main goals in breeding is to obtain varieties with high genetic potential for yield. Modern agricultural production includes the expansion of intensive varieties over large areas that lead to narrow selection criteria in breeding programs. The consequence is a drastic reduction in the number of species and genotypes (genetic erosion), or harming biological diversity of local populations, and spontaneous relatives (biodiversity) in cereals. Based on detailed inventories of the territory of Montenegro and to some extent in Eastern Serbia, a endangerment of gene pool in cereals could be denoted. The reason for this is a transition to another type of agricultural production, changing land purposes, the presence of nursing homes, and use of intensive varieties. Old varieties and local populations represent the original genetic variability that could be used in breeding programs and organic production. It is therefore essential to take measures to preserve the genetic resources of cereals.