Climate adaptation in a minor crop species: is the cocoa breeding network prepared for climate change?. Issue 7 (9th August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Farrell, Aidan D.; Rhiney, Kevon; Eitzinger, Anton; Umaharan, Pathmanathan
• Is Part Of: Agroecology and sustainable food systems. Volume 42:Issue 7(2018)
• Page Start: 812
• Page End: 833
• Publication Date: 2018-08-09
• Subjects: Climate change -- climate adaptation -- orphan crops -- Theobroma cacao -- plant breeding; Sustainable agriculture -- Periodicals; Agricultural ecology -- Periodicals; 577.55
• DOI: 10.1080/21683565.2018.1448924
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2168-3565

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Plant breeding has undoubtedly been successful in increasing the yield of high value commodity crops. In recent decades, efforts have been made to repeat this success in 'orphan crops' through a network of regional and national organizations largely composed of public and not-for-profit institutions. Adapting to climate change is a key challenge for these networks. Here we seek to analyze the particular challenges that characterize efforts to develop climate-smart varieties in minor crops, using the example of cocoa. Cocoa is a high-value commodity with a global research network; however, to date it has not received sustained attention from major global research centers. We estimate that globally <100 new cocoa varieties have been released since 2000, and our analysis suggests that this low number is constrained not by a limited availability of germplasm, but by limitations in the infrastructure focused on the final stages of breeding. We conclude that selecting minor crops for a future climate requires a long-term, regional approach that exploits modern technologies, integrates participatory selection, and is managed through a centrally funded network.