Bayer Crop Science Canada has partnered with the University of Alberta (U of A) to research the genetic diversity of Canada’s most exported crop – canola. Through this research, the team at U of A aims to make hybrid canola stronger, leading to an increased yield for Canadian farmers.
“There is a prosperous future for canola in Canada,” says Antoine Bernet, President and CEO, Bayer Crop Science Canada. “The talented research team at the University of Alberta are developing hundreds of canola lines, which could be a game changer for our farmers. Having canola that not only has an increased seed yield, but is also more disease resistant, would be an incredible step forward for Canadian agriculture.”
The research team is currently evaluating the genes of brassica vegetables, such as broccoli and kale, to determine which are best for breeding new lines of canola to produce the strongest hybrids. These types of plants are closely related to canola, and showcase the untapped genetic range and diversity available for canola development. Through this research, the team can then conclude which sources and backgrounds can create the highest yield for canola.
“Canada is the top producer of canola, and with demand expected to increase substantially over the next decade, it’s critical that we support research that will help to bolster this important crop,” says Antoine. “While it will take time to develop these hybrids, I’m optimistic about the work done by the team at U of A to enhance the genetic diversity of canola here in Canada.”
Once developed and proven effective, the improved genetic material and the knowledge from the research will support the long-term work of Bayer Crop Science to produce new commercial hybrids.
