Chinese scientists are reportedly racing against time to save the potato, a vital commodity. global Food crops, due to adverse effects of Climate changeResearch conducted under the International Potato Center (CIP) in Beijing is said to have revealed a worrying reduction in potato yields when exposed to high temperatures. Potatoes grown under simulated conditions simulating future climate scenarios were found to weigh less than half that of common varieties in China, underscoring the urgent need for adaptation strategies.
Research findings highlight urgency
The study, published in the journal Climate Smart Agriculture and detailed in Reuters reportDescribed a three-year project led by molecular biologist Li Jieping. Potatoes cultivated at temperatures 3 degrees Celsius above the current average in Hebei and Inner Mongolia saw a yield reduction of more than 50 percent. Li Jieping told the publication that the tubers’ quick growth came at the expense of size and weight, raising concerns about future food security in China, the world’s largest potato producer.
Climate challenges threaten production
Farmers in Inner Mongolia are already seeing the effects of climate change, including unregulated Rain This delays crop harvesting and increases crop diseases. Wang Shiyi, manager of Hebei Jiuen Agricultural Development Company, said heavy rains this year have significantly slowed down harvesting efforts.
Li Xuemin, general manager of Yakeshi Senfeng Potato Industry Co., reportedly said that diseases such as late blight, which thrive in hot and humid conditions, are becoming more resistant to traditional control measures.
Developing climate-resilient solutions
According to sources, to overcome these challenges, Chinese researchers are reportedly using advanced technologies such as aeroponics and genetic studies to develop heat-tolerant and disease-resistant potato varieties. At a research facility in Yanqing, Beijing, workers are said to be propagating potato plants under controlled conditions. Li Jieping told the publication that changes to farming methods, including changing planting seasons and moving to higher altitudes, may be necessary within the next decade to reduce yield losses.
Researchers reportedly claim that without immediate intervention, both farmers’ livelihoods and potato prices globally could be seriously affected temperature Continue to grow.