Biotech Updates

CIP Develops Enhanced Potato Varieties

February 5, 2010

The International Potato Center (CIP) and partner institutions are implementing a three-year project to develop potato varieties that can adapt to the drought and increased temperatures of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Bangladesh. Their work is a response to the challenges of environmental constraints and climate change.

Scientists are identifying and validating heat, drought, and salinity tolerance traits in a comprehensive program of exchanging and testing advanced potato clones. Through a combination of research tools including geographic information systems and multilocation data, they are able to assess the suitability of the clones for specific locations. In addition, clones that would adapt to future conditions under climate change scenarios can also be determined.

View CIP's press release at http://www.cipotato.org/pressroom/press_releases_detail.asp?cod=76