genetic diversity
Because error has a price
Incorrect identification of crop varieties is widespread among farmers, according to a new CIMMYT study.
Mining Useful Alleles for Climate Change Adaptation from CGIAR Genebanks
Our food system isn’t ready for the climate crisis
Source: The Guardian (14 Apr 2022)
“We’ll never get back all the diversity we had before, but the diversity we need is out there,” says Matthew Reynolds, head of wheat physiology at CIMMYT.
A conservation conversation
In a Q&A, Thomas Payne reflects on how CIMMYT’s wheat genebank can be a model for maintaining biodiversity in agricultural systems.
Seed Seekers, Seed Keepers, Seed Growers
Source: Seed World (1 Oct 2020)
CIMMYT’s seed bank preserves the genetic diversity of maize and wheat so the crops can adapt to a changing production environment.
Preserving the legacy of biodiversity
Maize and wheat seeds from all over the world are preserved at the CIMMYT genebank, used to bring new varieties to farmers, and backed up at the Global Seed Vault.
New greenhouse honors scientist, aims to further maize wild relatives research
In an environment designed for experimental study and regeneration, maize ancestors can thrive.
One-minute science: Trent Blare and blue maize products
Consumers near Mexico City perceived blue maize tortillas to taste better. They were willing to pay up to a third more to buy them for special family events or to consume them in restaurants.
Blue maize is all the rage, but are consumers willing to pay?
Study gives insight into Mexican consumers’ preferences and demand for blue maize tortillas.
Back from the brink of extinction
Visiting scientist Roi Ben-David discusses Israel’s exotic germplasm gap and ongoing efforts to restore the country’s lost wheat landrace collections.