Chilean researchers develop climate-resilient crops to combat drought

Agricultural researchers in Chile are working to develop crop varieties capable of withstanding the effects of climate change, specifically prolonged droughts and rising temperatures.

At the University of La Serena, Dr. Marco Garrido-Salinas is leading a study on the País grape, a heritage strain cultivated in Chile for centuries. The research aims to identify genetic differences within this specific variety that allow certain plants to better manage water deficits based on their historical geographic origins. This could help farmers select plant material that maintains the grape's identity while adapting to water scarcity.

Simultaneously, the Agricultural Research Institute (INIA) is focusing on genetic improvement programs to enhance water efficiency and thermal stress resistance. INIA's contributions are already significant to the national food supply, as the institution has developed 100% of the rice varieties grown in Chile and approximately half of the country's wheat varieties.