Broadening the Genetic Base of Grain Cereals

Broadening the Genetic Base of Grain Cereals PDF

Author: Mohar Singh

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2016-09-27

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9788132236115

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This book offers comprehensive coverage of important grain cereals including their origin and distribution, crop gene pool, level of diversity, production constraints, traits of importance for genetic base widening, crop improvement methodologies, genome mapping, genomics for breeding, and future strategies. The chapters, contributed by eminent crop researchers from around the world, provide rare insights into the crop-specific constraints and prospects drawing from their substantial experience. As such, the book offers an essential source of information for grain cereals scientists, teachers, students, policy planners and developmental experts alike. Grain cereals, which comprise rice, wheat, maize, barley, oats, sorghum and millets, are members of the grass family. These crops are vital to human nutrition, thanks to their roles as staple food crops in different parts of the globe. Some of them are rich sources of carbohydrates, which provide energy, while others are important sources of minerals, vitamins and proteins, in addition to their medicinal properties. In most cereals, the existing variability among elite germplasm has been exploited to attain a desirable level of productivity. However, to make further breakthroughs in enhancing yield and improving stability in future crop cultivars, new sources of genes/alleles need to be identified in wild/weedy species and incorporated into the cultivated varieties. Though there have been many publications on various aspects of grain cereal improvement in the recent past, to date this essential information has remained scattered among different periodicals.

Agricultural Research for Sustainable Food Systems in Sri Lanka

Agricultural Research for Sustainable Food Systems in Sri Lanka PDF

Author: Buddhi Marambe

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2020-03-30

Total Pages: 394

ISBN-13: 9811521522

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A food system comprises the entire range of actors and interlinked activities related to food production, processing, distribution, marketing and trade, preparation, consumption, and disposal. When a food system operates without compromising the needs of future generations, it is considered to be a “Sustainable Food System.” The present-day food systems in Sri Lanka are diverse, and the natural and physical environment, infrastructure, institutions, society and culture, and policies and regulations within which the food systems operate, as well as the technologies employed, have shaped their outcomes. Agricultural research is a key factor in terms of innovation and technological advances. Innovation has been the main driver of food systems’ transformation over the past few decades and will be critical to addressing the needs of a rapidly growing population in a context of climate change and scarcity of natural resources. In addition, agricultural research must help meet the rising demand for food at affordable prices. Comprising 17 chapters written by specialist(s) in their respective subject-areas, this Contributed Volume on “Agricultural Research for Sustainable Food Systems in Sri Lanka: A Historical Perspective” shares the scientific knowledge accumulated by the National Agricultural Research System of Sri Lanka, including universities, and offers recommendations on how to make food systems more sustainable in order to address the current needs of Sri Lankan society. It presents perspectives on four key thematic areas, namely: (i) Crop and animal production, management, and improvement, (ii) Agro-product processing technologies, (iii) Natural resource management, and (iv) Socio-economic development and agri-business management.

Future Harvest

Future Harvest PDF

Author: Alexandra Greenfield

Publisher:

Published: 2024-01-08

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13:

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"Future Harvest" is a groundbreaking exploration into the evolving landscape of agriculture, offering readers a comprehensive journey through the crucial aspects of sustainable and innovative farming practices. In Chapter 1, "Seeds of Change," the narrative kicks off by delving into the fundamental building blocks of agriculture-seeds. This chapter explores how innovative seed technologies are steering the course for a resilient and sustainable future in farming. Moving on to Chapter 2, "Nourishing the Soil," readers are guided through the essential role of soil health in fostering bountiful harvests. The chapter elucidates the symbiotic relationship between soil and crops, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the very foundation of agricultural productivity. Chapter 3, "Water Wisdom," takes a deep dive into water management strategies crucial for sustainable farming practices. From efficient irrigation techniques to water conservation, readers gain valuable insights into the responsible use of this precious resource. As we progress to Chapter 4, "From Farm to Fork," the narrative shifts to the entire food supply chain. This chapter illuminates the intricate journey food takes from cultivation to consumption, shedding light on the interconnectedness of every link in the chain. Chapter 5, "Innovations in Crop Management," explores cutting-edge technologies transforming the way crops are cultivated, managed, and harvested. From precision agriculture to advanced crop monitoring systems, readers gain a nuanced understanding of the tools shaping the future of farming. In Chapter 6, "Technology and the Farmer," the focus widens to how farmers are embracing technology to optimize their operations. The chapter discusses how digital tools and data-driven approaches empower farmers to make informed decisions, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Chapter 7, "Policies for a Sustainable Future," shifts the spotlight to the broader societal context. Readers are taken through the policies and frameworks necessary for fostering sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the role of governments and institutions in shaping a resilient food system. Chapter 8, "Challenges and Opportunities," candidly addresses the hurdles that lie ahead for sustainable agriculture. From climate change to economic challenges, the book navigates through the obstacles while highlighting the opportunities for positive change. Chapter 9, "Empowering Farmers," underscores the pivotal role of farmers in the sustainable food ecosystem. Readers discover the initiatives and practices empowering farmers globally, ensuring they play a central role in shaping the future of agriculture. In Chapter 10, "The Future of Food," the narrative zooms out to contemplate the broader implications of current agricultural practices. Readers are encouraged to reflect on the evolving nature of food production and its impact on societies worldwide. Chapter 11, "Global Collaboration for Sustainable Agriculture," explores the imperative for international cooperation. The chapter underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges, offering a vision for a unified approach to sustainable agriculture. Finally, in Chapter 12, "Harvesting Hope," the book concludes on an optimistic note. Readers are inspired by stories of success, innovation, and resilience, leaving them with a sense of hope for the future of agriculture and the vital role it plays in nourishing our planet. "Future Harvest" is a compelling read that combines expert insights with a passion for sustainable agriculture, making it an indispensable resource for anyone invested in the future of our food systems.

Omics Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture and Global Food Security Volume 1

Omics Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture and Global Food Security Volume 1 PDF

Author: Anirudh Kumar

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2021-05-13

Total Pages: 297

ISBN-13: 9811608318

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Increasing world population, unpredictable climate and various kind of biotic and abiotic stresses necessitate the sustainable increase in crop production through developing improved cultivars possessing enhanced genetic resilience against all odds. An exploration of these challenges and near possible solution to improve yield is addressed in this book. It comprehensively and coherently reviews the application of various aspect of rapidly growing omics technology including genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics for crop development. It provides detailed examination of how omics can help crop science and introduces the benefits of using these technologies to enhance crop production, resistance and other values. It also provides platform to ponder upon the integrative approach of omics to deal with complex biological problems. The book highlights crop improvement such as yield enhancement, biotic and abiotic resistance, genetic modification, bioremediation, food security etc. It explores how the different omics technology independently and collectively would be used to improve the quantitative and qualitative traits of crop plants. The book is useful for graduate and post-graduate students of life science including researchers who are keen to know about the application of omics technologies in the different area of plant science. This book is also an asset to the modern plant breeders, and agriculture biotechnologist.

Brassica Oilseeds

Brassica Oilseeds PDF

Author: Arvind Kumar

Publisher: CABI

Published: 2015-09-29

Total Pages: 283

ISBN-13: 1780644833

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Oilseed brassicas are among the largest traded agricultural commodities and are grown in around fifty countries worldwide. Utilised for both consumption and bioenergy use, demand is increasing and this book covers the entire gamut of oilseed brassicas. Beginning with an introduction and then organised into two sections, it reviews genetics and genomics (including breeding, heterosis and selection methods) and stress management and important pathogens, to provide a complete overview of brassica oilseeds.

Orphan Crops: Breeding and Biotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture, Food and Nutrition

Orphan Crops: Breeding and Biotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture, Food and Nutrition PDF

Author: Simon E. Bull

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Published: 2024-01-18

Total Pages: 341

ISBN-13: 2832543111

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Orphan crops play an important role in food and nutrition security especially in growing economies where small-holder farmers produce the majority of food. Despite their importance in global agriculture and their often remarkable nutrient content and adaptation to challenging environmental conditions, orphan crops have received limited attention by the scientific community and industry. However, the diversity of neglected plant species provides a large genetic resource that could significantly contribute to broadening the biodiversity of trait-desired crops for novel value chains, sustainable development and food security. The uptake of new plant breeding techniques, notably genome editing, as well as ‘omic’ tools, are now accelerating translation of basic research and facilitating the exploration of orphan crops. These advancements also give rise to public and politic engagement discussions to maximize socio-economic impact. Given that the greatest need for food and nutritional security is in growing economies, issues of food sovereignty and sustainability of their food systems become front-and-centre. There is now an exceptional opportunity to tackle some of the major current challenges in agriculture, including climate change, sustainable cropping systems, food quality, and nutritional security through broadening research in wild relatives of crops and on orphan species. This Research Topic seeks to showcase research on neglected plants using advanced molecular technologies (e.g. genome sequencing, 'omics', etc) and new plant breeding approaches, methods, and tools. This Research Topic will also discuss the challenges and opportunities arising when modern breeding techniques are applied for translational research.

Omics Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture and Global Food Security (Vol II)

Omics Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture and Global Food Security (Vol II) PDF

Author: Anirudh Kumar

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2021-08-05

Total Pages: 354

ISBN-13: 9811629560

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This edited book brings out a comprehensive collection of information on the modern omics-based research. The main focus of this book is to educate researchers about utility of omics-based technologies in rapid crop improvement. In last two decades, omics technologies have been utilized significantly in the area of plant sciences and has shown promising results. Omics technology has potential to address the challenge of food security in the near future. The comprehensive use of omics technology occurred in last two decades and helped greatly in the understanding of complex biological problems, improve crop productivity and ensure sustainable use of ecosystem services. This book is of interest to researchers and students of life sciences, biotechnology, plant biotechnology, agriculture, forestry, and environmental sciences. It is also a useful knowledge resource for national and international agricultural scientists.

Genetically Engineered Crops

Genetically Engineered Crops PDF

Author: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Publisher: National Academies Press

Published: 2017-01-28

Total Pages: 607

ISBN-13: 0309437385

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Genetically engineered (GE) crops were first introduced commercially in the 1990s. After two decades of production, some groups and individuals remain critical of the technology based on their concerns about possible adverse effects on human health, the environment, and ethical considerations. At the same time, others are concerned that the technology is not reaching its potential to improve human health and the environment because of stringent regulations and reduced public funding to develop products offering more benefits to society. While the debate about these and other questions related to the genetic engineering techniques of the first 20 years goes on, emerging genetic-engineering technologies are adding new complexities to the conversation. Genetically Engineered Crops builds on previous related Academies reports published between 1987 and 2010 by undertaking a retrospective examination of the purported positive and adverse effects of GE crops and to anticipate what emerging genetic-engineering technologies hold for the future. This report indicates where there are uncertainties about the economic, agronomic, health, safety, or other impacts of GE crops and food, and makes recommendations to fill gaps in safety assessments, increase regulatory clarity, and improve innovations in and access to GE technology.