科研之友
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摘要
Entomology and classical Mendelian genetics have had a long association and Mendel's legacy continues to live through sugarcane pests. In this paper, we discuss examples of that legacy as applied to conventional and molecular approaches to breeding for insect resistance. We also discuss the application of genetics in pest management, systematics, and ecology. Conventional breeding for insect resistance is likely to continue to lag behind other traits as the realities of the high costs associated with a conventional breeding program and complexity of the sugarcane genome will continue to hold sway. Molecular breeding techniques offer many opportunities to overcome those limitations; however, the cost associated with this technology is high and gains that are obtained in pest management must be compared to more conventional strategies. Additionally, before the release of transgenic sugarcane with insect resistance can occur, various scientific, legislative, and public perception issues must be addressed. Many sugarcane industries lack the resources and are simply unable to overcome these obstacles. Genetic methods have revolutionised insect taxonomy and provided the means for rapid identification of closely related species, often without access to identified specimens. This is now impacting on our understanding of the ecology and biology of sugarcane pests and their natural enemies. Crop plants and pest insects can be genetically modified but paratransgenesis of closely associated microorganisms may allow better targeting and delivery of insecticidal compounds. Again, scientific, legislative, and public perception issues must be addressed.
- 出版日期2014-12
