Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Lecture PDF

Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology  Agricultural Biotechnology refers to the application of scientific techniques and technologies to modify and improve plants and microorganisms in the soil for agricultural p...

Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology  Agricultural Biotechnology refers to the application of scientific techniques and technologies to modify and improve plants and microorganisms in the soil for agricultural purposes.  Agricultural Biotechnology harnesses the power of molecular biology to address various challenges in agriculture (abiotic and biotic stresses), enhance crop productivity, improve food quality, and contribute to sustainable farming practices.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Key Aspects of Agricultural Biotechnology:  Genetic Modification: Genetic modification, also known as genetic engineering or genetic manipulation, involves the deliberate insertion, deletion, or modification of specific genes in the DNA of an organism.  Crop Improvement: Biotechnology plays a significant role in crop improvement. It helps in the development of genetically modified (GM) crops with traits that can benefit both farmers and consumers. For instance, crops can be engineered to resist pests, diseases, or environmental stress, improved nutritional content, and increased yield.  Microbial Biotechnology: Biotechnology allows the development of beneficial  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Key Aspects of Agricultural Biotechnology:  Plant Tissue Culture: Biotechnology enables the propagation of plants through tissue culture. It involves the growth of plant cells, tissues, or organs in a controlled environment, leading to the production of disease-free and genetically identical plants on a large scale. This technique is essential for rapid propagation of elite plant varieties.  Molecular Breeding: Molecular markers and advanced genetic techniques are used in molecular breeding to identify and select desired traits in plants more efficiently. This process helps in developing new crop varieties with improved yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to changing climatic conditions.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology  Overall, Agricultural Biotechnology has revolutionized the way we produce food and manage agricultural systems.  It holds great potential in addressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and sustainable resource management.  However, it is essential to consider ethical, social, and environmental aspects while harnessing the power of biotechnology to ensure its responsible and beneficial application in agriculture.  Today, we will focus on the adoption of genetically modified (GM) crops, their contribution to global food security, and their environmental benefits.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Adoption of Genetically Modified Crops  Genetically modified crops are plants that have been genetically engineered to possess specific worldwide: traits.  These traits may include resistance to pests, tolerance to herbicides, or improved nutritional content.  The adoption of GM crops has been steadily increasing worldwide.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Adoption of GM Crops - United States  In the United States, GM crop adoption has been significant  Currently, about 94% of soybeans and 92% of maize (corn) and 96% of cotton are genetically modified. Adoption of GM Crops - South Africa  South Africa has also embraced GM crops.  About 94% of maize, 95% of soybeans and all cotton are genetically modified.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Impact on Global Food Security  GM crops play a crucial role in enhancing global food security.  Increased crop yields lead to more abundant and affordable food.  Enhanced nutritional content can address malnutrition.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Impact on the Environment- Insect Resistance  GM crops with insect resistance traits can reduce reliance on chemical insecticides.  Less active ingredient usage leads to improved Environmental Impact.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Impact on the Environment - Herbicide  Tolerance GM crops with herbicide tolerance traits can benefit the environment too.  They allow for more efficient weed control using less harmful herbicides.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Impact on the Environment - Reduced Fuel  GM insect-resistant crops also reduce the need for frequent insecticide spraying. Consumption  Reduced spraying translates to lower fuel consumption in agricultural machinery.  Thereby, positively impacting carbon storage and sequestration by reducing carbon dioxide emissions associated with fuel use.  Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology (BTN218) Introduction to Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology Conclusion  Biotechnology has significantly impacted agriculture.  It contributes to global food security while reducing the environmental footprint.  As we go further into this module, we will explore more exciting aspects of Plant and Agricultural Biotechnology. Thank you