Role of traditional cultivars and in situ conservation in sustainable agriculture: a case study in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

摘要

On-farm (in situ) conservation plays an important role in the conservation of traditional varieties. Studies were undertaken in coastal areas of Orissa, India with salt-tolerant traditional rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasm to evaluate the importance that local communities place on continued in situ conservation. This paper discusses (a) agricultural practices in the area, (b) aggregate diversities, (c) studies, using RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) analysis, on the genetic variability among the varieties grown in a single area, (d) the importance of such on-farm conservation in saving these exotic varieties and (e) the possible role of these varieties in future rice breeding experiments. The use of sustainable rural agriculture is discussedin light of its potential to help modern agriculture in the development of new and better varieties.