Increasing Co-Breeder Competence, Two IPB University Lecturers Propose a Participatory Breeding Approach
In order to increase the competency of plant breeders (Co-Breeders) and to optimize the genetic diversity of Indonesian plants in the agricultural sector, two IPB University lecturers explained appropriate plant breeding approaches and techniques. It is hoped that Indonesia can become a center for developing varieties in times of climate change.
Prof Sobir, IPB University lecturer from the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture recommended participatory breeding to optimize the utilization of these genetic resources.
"I propose a new approach, namely participatory breeding so that breeders do not only come from universities and government agencies but encourage farmers, individuals, hobbyists, and observers," he said in a seminar entitled 'Improving the Competence of Co Breeders in the Context of Variety Release' held by the Center for Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing, Ministry of Agriculture, recently.
Prof Sobir explained that participatory breeding is directed into formal breeding. Local varieties are developed into new varieties so that they can provide benefits to the breeder to be produced as seeds.
"With this participatory breeding, local varieties can be released and registered directly for seed production so that they can provide direct benefits to farmers who demand special seed advantages," he continued.
This approach is considered to realize a more sustainable provision of new varieties. Formal breeders participate with breeder farmers in educational, consultative, collaborative, and collegial aspects.
On the same occasion, Prof Luki Abdullah, IPB University lecturer from the Faculty of Animal Science also explained the breeding techniques of fodder plants (TPT). According to him, fodder plant breeding is very important because it is closely related to the provision of fodder plants as a source of forage.
"Featured varieties are not only oriented towards biomass production and adaptation to stress, but also oriented towards quality or nutrition and safety," said Prof. Luki.
He shared several TPT breeding techniques that focus on anatomical parameters, growth and nutritional quality. The success of TPT breeding can be assessed based on the test results with these parameters.
However, he said, the success is determined by sampling and handling techniques. "Common mistakes that occur in analyzing forage quality are in determining forage dry matter and handling fresh forage samples," he added.
According to Prof Luki, the release of feed crop varieties also needs to be directed as functional feed to maintain livestock productivity and health. The strategic role of TPT for food security is very urgent, so it needs proper breeding techniques and variety testing. (MW) (IAAS/MKY)
