Allelic diversity represents the variety of alleles, or gene variants, within a plant species’ gene pool, which contributes to genetic variability and adaptability. High allelic diversity allows plants to adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions and helps in developing traits like disease resistance, yield stability, and nutritional content. This genetic variation is critical for breeding programs, as it offers a pool of beneficial traits that can be selectively bred to meet agricultural demands. By conserving allelic diversity, researchers aim to create resilient crops that can adapt to shifting climates, ensuring agricultural sustainability and food security for future generations.
Title : Preventing/minimizing development of resistance in fungal plant pathogens to fungicides
Mohammad Babadoost, University of Illinois, United States
Title : Mycorrhizae and their role in climate resilience in agricultural systems
Mary Cole, The University of Melbourne, Australia