Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 221-233 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 229 cold climates; however, with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, even rye's robustness is being tested (Matei et al., 2020). Prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall patterns can severely reduce yield and quality, making it imperative to develop rye varieties with enhanced tolerance to water stress and temperature fluctuations. The genetic diversity within rye populations offers some buffering capacity against environmental changes, but this diversity must be carefully managed and conserved. Breeding for enhanced resilience often involves trade-offs, where improving one trait may negatively impact another, such as yield potential or disease resistance (Schlegel, 2022). Moreover, the effects of climate change on rye’s traditional growing regions require ongoing research to develop strategies that can mitigate these impacts and maintain crop productivity. 8.2 Disease resistance and pest management Rye faces significant challenges from diseases and pests, which can cause substantial losses in both yield and quality. Fungal diseases such as rusts and ergot, as well as viral infections, are major concerns in rye cultivation. These pathogens can spread rapidly under favorable conditions, particularly in regions with high humidity or where monoculture practices are prevalent (Schreiber et al., 2018). The development of disease-resistant rye varieties is an ongoing challenge, as pathogens continuously evolve, potentially overcoming existing resistance genes. The incorporation of resistance traits from wild relatives has been a successful strategy, but this approach is not without limitations. Resistance genes from wild species may not always be fully compatible with domesticated rye, leading to other agronomic issues such as reduced yield or poor grain quality (Hawliczek et al., 2023). Pest management is another critical area, particularly with the emergence of new pests or the expansion of pest populations into areas where they were previously not a concern. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine biological control, crop rotation, and the judicious use of pesticides are necessary to control pest populations while minimizing environmental impact. However, implementing these strategies effectively requires significant knowledge and resources, which can be a barrier for smaller farms or those in developing regions. 8.3 Socio-economic and policy challenges In addition to biological and environmental challenges, socio-economic and policy factors play a significant role in rye cultivation. Economic incentives, market access, and policy support are crucial for farmers to invest in rye production. In many regions, rye is considered a minor crop compared to wheat or corn, which can lead to lower investment in research, breeding, and infrastructure for rye cultivation (Larsson et al., 2019). Market volatility and fluctuating prices also pose challenges, particularly for small-scale farmers who may rely heavily on rye as a source of income. Policies that support price stability, provide access to modern agricultural inputs, and promote the use of sustainable farming practices are essential for the long-term viability of rye cultivation. Additionally, the promotion of rye-based products in the market can enhance demand and provide farmers with better returns, encouraging them to continue growing rye despite the challenges. Furthermore, access to new technologies and modern breeding techniques is unevenly distributed, with many farmers in developing countries lacking the resources to adopt the latest advancements in rye cultivation. Bridging this gap requires targeted policy interventions, including subsidies, training programs, and improved access to agricultural technologies (Miedaner et al., 2018). The challenges in rye research and cultivation are multifaceted, involving environmental, biological, and socio-economic factors. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates advanced breeding techniques, sustainable agricultural practices, and supportive policies to ensure the continued success of rye as a resilient and valuable cereal crop.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNQ==