Modernizing rice hybridization : essential for genetic improvement

The Hybridization Services under the Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology (PBGB) Division of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has been revitalized to conduct broad-based and high-volume rice crossing programs to facilitate the efficiency of genetic gain for rice varietal improvement. It serves as a gateway to help maximize genetic diversity by conducting infinite 'match-making marriages' within the Oryza genome. In 2014, to capitalize on its potential, the modernization of infrastructures and the acquisition of new equipment useful for crossing work were initiated and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. In addition, an up-to-date web technological tool for data management was set to provide support in handling considerable information generated from hybridization requests per season (e.g., designation of germplasm IDs). This organized process aims to validate, store, protect, and process data, and at the same time, ensure the satisfaction of clients. The impact of these new, pioneering changes will further determine the Hybridization Services capacity to take on the challenge of producing quality progeny for the different breeding programs under the division (i.e., the development of varieties with increased yield potential, climate resilience, tolerance for abiotic stresses, resistance to pests and diseases, and grain quality). Currently, the Hybridization Services is offering various types of crosses such as single cross, backcross, topcross, and double cross to produce F1, F2 and BC, F1 seeds. The Hybridization Services acts as an integral part of the Institute's breeding program because it serves as the baseline in generating diverse populations available for further research and genetic exploitation.