FC_2025v8n2

Field Crop 2025, Vol.8, No.2, 61-71 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 64 Edmeades, 2010; Voss-Fels et al., 2019). These advancements demonstrate the continued relevance and effectiveness of traditional breeding techniques in meeting the demands of modern agriculture. 4 Regional Case Studies 4.1 Practices of mechanized farming in developed countries like the USA and Australia Mechanized farming in developed countries such as the USA and Australia has significantly advanced wheat production through the integration of technology and improved management practices. In the USA, particularly in the central Great Plains, long-term variety performance trials have been utilized to optimize wheat yield by understanding the interactions between genotype, environment, and management practices. These trials have shown that water regime, sowing date, and fungicide application are critical factors influencing wheat yield, with drought tolerance being a key trait for dryland trials (Munaro et al., 2020). This approach has allowed for the development of region-specific recommendations that enhance the efficiency of mechanized farming. In Australia, mechanized farming practices have similarly focused on adapting wheat varieties to local environmental conditions. The emphasis has been on improving water use efficiency and root health, which are crucial for sustainable wheat production in resource-conserving farming systems. The development of wheat cultivars that are resistant to foliar diseases and have enhanced nutritional value has been a priority, aligning with the needs of mechanized farming systems that aim to maximize productivity while conserving resources (Trethowan et al., 2005). 4.2 Regional adaptability of wheat varieties in developing countries for mechanized cultivation In developing countries, the adaptability of wheat varieties to mechanized farming is crucial for enhancing productivity and food security. The Green Revolution played a pivotal role in transforming wheat production in these regions, with modern wheat varieties being rapidly adopted. However, there is a need to replace these varieties with new ones that are better suited to current environmental challenges and mechanized farming practices (Shiferaw et al., 2013). This includes developing varieties that are resistant to diseases and pests, and that can thrive in warmer climates with reduced inputs of water, fertilizer, and labor. Efforts in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia have shown potential for significant productivity gains through the adaptation of wheat varieties to local conditions. Technical advances, such as improved monitoring of soils and water conservation strategies, are essential for the success of mechanized farming in these areas. The development of wheat varieties that can withstand variable climatic conditions and management practices is key to achieving sustainable productivity growth (O'Leary et al., 2018). 4.3 Success stories of wheat variety development in different ecological zones Success stories of wheat variety development are evident in various ecological zones, where targeted breeding programs have led to the creation of varieties that meet specific regional needs. In the Yaqui Valley, for example, on-farm trials have been instrumental in identifying wheat genotypes with high performance and stability under different irrigation and nitrogen fertilization levels. This approach has enabled the development of cultivars that are well-suited to the local farming systems and environmental conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining genotype and environment analyses in breeding programs (Tabbita et al., 2023). In Morocco, the diffusion and adoption of improved wheat varieties have been influenced by both institutional and farm-level factors. Despite challenges such as stringent variety testing procedures and market constraints, efforts to enhance private sector engagement and revise testing protocols have facilitated the introduction of new varieties. These initiatives have contributed to the successful adaptation of wheat varieties to local conditions, highlighting the importance of addressing both institutional and practical barriers to variety development (Tabbita et al., 2023). 5 Applications of Modern Breeding Technologies 5.1 The role of marker-assisted selection (MAS) in precise trait identification Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has emerged as a pivotal tool in the precise identification and improvement of traits in wheat breeding. This technology leverages molecular markers to facilitate the selection of desirable traits,

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