Manila:Experts in the palm oil industry are advocating for improved oil palm breeding strategies to develop drought-tolerant varieties. These efforts aim to maintain high yields, support farmers’ livelihoods, and address the challenges posed by climate change.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Rajinder Singh from the Advanced Biotechnology and Breeding Centre of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board emphasized the importance of these strategies during a lecture in Benin. Research is underway to identify drought-tolerant planting materials using Southeast Asian and African germplasm, as well as shell mutations.
Dr. Singh highlighted the necessity of identifying suitable oil palm genotypes to enhance productivity in drought-prone areas. Studies in South America and Thailand have been conducted to find planting materials that can survive with limited water. One study found oil palm lines that remained healthy after 16 months without watering, though with less vigorous growth than well-watered plants.
Singh also mentioned the role of molecular marker analysis in identifying genes linked to stress adaptation. He noted that nursery assessments alone are insufficient to establish drought tolerance, advocating for measurable seedling characteristics to predict field performance.
The challenges of rising temperatures and prolonged dry spells, associated with climate change, were also addressed. These conditions could significantly impact oil palm yields. Understanding physiological processes, flowering patterns, and fruit bunch production is crucial for successful breeding.
Dr. Claude Bakoume, Africa Regional Representative of the International Society for Oil Palm Breeders, reiterated the importance of selecting genotypes suited for drought conditions to increase yields. He noted that inadequate water affects nutrient absorption and palm development, influencing the balance of male and female flowers and reducing yields.
Dr. Isona Gold, Executive Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research, urged workshop participants to apply the knowledge gained from experts to their work. Represented by Dr. Olushegun Solomon, Gold emphasized the value of the workshop’s presentations and discussions and encouraged participants to engage with experienced scholars and scientists. He expressed hope that the event would lead to fruitful deliberations and improvements in research and professional practices.