Wheat Production and Research in Madagascar: Constraints and Sustainability
Rakotondramannana | Randrianaivoarivony, J.M. | Randriantsalama, R.A. (FIFAMANOR, Antsirabe (Madagascar))
Wheat is grown in Madagascar at altitudes ranging from 1200 to 1800 m a.s.l. in two seasons: 1)during the rainy season from January to May, and 2)during the dry season under irrigation in paddy fields from May to November. An outbreak of stem rust (Puccinia graminis) was experienced from 1985 to 1987; all released wheat varieties were susceptible, but new varieties with high levels of resistance were introduced in 1987. During the last three years, stem rust has not been a problem because all varieties released by FIFAMNOR, from CIMMYT segregating materials, have a high level of resistance. In 1990, after a period of drought in the country, wheat experienced a heavy attack of leaf rust (Puccinia recondita). Although infection before heading was observed in most areas, yield losses were low in the highlands, but were reported to be high at low altitudes. All available materials were screened for leaf rust resistance in 1990 and 1991, and resistant materials have been released. At the present time, ten varieties of wheat and two varieties of triticale are grown by farmers. As far as sustainability of wheat production is concerned, wheat is competitive with other crops regarding actual prices, but is very sensitive to fertilizer price increases. Sustainability of rainfed wheat production on the hills depends on the availability of aluminum tolerant materials and an appropriate cropping system. Zero tillage combined with leguminous cover crops-appears promising.
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