Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 173-184 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 181 7.2 Sustainable agriculture practices Sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for the long-term viability of Triticeae crops. Intercropping systems, for example, have shown promise in reducing pest abundance without the need for harmful insecticides, although additional practices may be required to enhance the effectiveness of natural enemies (Lopes et al., 2016). Additionally, the diversification of crops, such as the inclusion of underutilized crops like teff, can enhance food and nutrition security while providing resilience against climate change (Cheng et al., 2017). Advanced technologies, including genome editing and synthetic biology, offer opportunities to improve crop traits such as disease resistance, water and nitrogen use efficiency, and adaptability to various environmental conditions (Hensel, 2019; Li et al., 2021). 7.3 Policy and research recommendations To address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure sustainable agriculture, several policy and research recommendations are necessary. First, there is a need for region-specific adaptation strategies that consider local growing conditions and climate impacts (Pequeno et al., 2021). Policies should support the development and dissemination of advanced agricultural technologies, such as genome editing and high-throughput phenotyping, to accelerate crop improvement (Li et al., 2021). Additionally, participatory approaches like crowdsourced citizen science can enhance the scalability and effectiveness of variety evaluations, helping farmers select the best-suited crop varieties for their specific environments (Etten et al., 2019). Finally, policies should promote the diversification of crops to reduce dependency on a few major cereals and enhance overall food security (Cheng et al., 2017). 8 Concluding Remarks The spread and adaptation of Triticeae crops, particularly wheat and barley, have been pivotal in shaping agricultural practices and food security globally. The genetic diversity and adaptability of these crops have been enhanced through various mechanisms, including introgression from wild populations and human selection, which have allowed them to thrive in diverse environments. The spatiotemporal distribution of these crops, especially in regions like the Gansu-Qinghai area of Northwest China, highlights the significant role of geographical and environmental factors in their spread. Local adaptation, driven by both abiotic and biotic factors, has been a crucial evolutionary process, enabling these crops to optimize their growth and reproduction in specific environments. The genetic transformation and biotechnological advancements in Triticeae cereals have further accelerated their adaptation and improvement, addressing challenges such as disease resistance and environmental stress tolerance. Continued research in the field of Triticeae crop adaptation is essential for several reasons. Firstly, understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying their adaptability can provide insights into improving crop resilience against climate change and environmental stresses. Secondly, exploring the historical pathways and genetic diversity of these crops can inform breeding programs aimed at enhancing their productivity and nutritional value. Additionally, investigating local adaptation and the role of microbial symbionts can lead to more sustainable agricultural practices by optimizing plant-soil-microbe interactions. Finally, advancements in genetic engineering and molecular breeding techniques hold promise for developing new crop varieties with improved traits, ensuring food security for a growing globalpopulation. The journey of Triticeae crops from their ancient origins to their current global distribution is a testament to their remarkable adaptability and the intricate interplay between genetics, environment, and human intervention. As we face the challenges of a changing climate and increasing food demand, the lessons learned from the spread and adaptation of these crops will be invaluable. Continued interdisciplinary research, combining historical, genetic, and biotechnological approaches, will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of Triticeae crops and securing a sustainable agricultural future. The ongoing efforts to understand and enhance the adaptability of these crops will not only benefit current agricultural practices but also pave the way for future innovations in crop science. Acknowledgments Thank you to the anonymous peer reviewers for their feedback on this study.
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