Wheat Landraces

Landraces are dynamic populations of cultivated plants with a large genetic base, diverse genetic makeup, and local adaptation. They are of great interest to plant breeders due to their resistance to biotic and abiotic stress factors and gene pools for wheat breeding. 75% of crop plant genetic diversity was lost in the last century, making it urgent to preserve existing species for food security.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 267 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Landraces are remarkable populations of cultivated plants with a rich genetic base, exhibiting dynamic characteristics and a historical origin. They possess a distinct identity and are free from any formal crop improvement efforts. These diverse plants are often locally adapted and are deeply intertwined with traditional farming systems. One of the most intriguing aspects of landraces is their remarkable genetic diversity, which is crucial for their resilience to biotic and abiotic stress factors. Landraces harbor a wide array of resistance genes that have evolved over centuries, making them highly valuable resources for plant breeders facing the challenges of a changing global climate. Moreover, the combination of gene pools derived from different landraces grown in diverse ecological conditions holds immense potential for wheat breeding. By leveraging this genetic diversity, breeders can enhance the quality, yield, and other desirable agricultural parameters of wheat. Unfortunately, it is estimated that approximately 75% of the genetic diversity of crop plants has been lost in the last century as a result of the widespread adoption of high-yielding modern varieties. This loss has significant implications, as it threatens the long-term sustainability of food production and the ability to meet the growing demands of a rapidly expanding world population. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, there is a pressing need to preserve existing species, not only for posterity but also as a vital means to secure the food supply for future generations. This book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of wheat landraces, focusing on their genetic diversities, conservation, and utilization. We will explore the unique characteristics of landraces, their contributions to agriculture, and the challenges faced in their preservation. Through this lens, we hope to shed light on the importance of conserving and leveraging the genetic wealth of landraces to ensure a sustainable and resilient food system for the years to come.

Weight: 427g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030773908
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021