China has a long history of agriculture, and farmers have rich experience and technology in the creation and utilization of local germplasm resources. However, in recent years, indigenous varieties of seeds have rapidly disappeared, leaving farmers without seeds of their own. This phenomenon is mainly due to the rapid development of commercial seeds and the related activities of multinational seed companies.
In terms of crops, the native germplasm resources of soybeans, corn and other crops are gradually disappearing. China, the homeland of soybeans, was once the world's largest producer and exporter of soybeans. However, with the liberalization of the soybean market and the introduction of genetically modified technology, China has become a major importer of soybeans. Most of the excellent local seeds were replaced by new varieties, resulting in the loss of native germplasm resources.
Similarly, maize, as the third largest food crop in China, is also facing the loss of native germplasm resources. With the widespread use of hybrids, self-repercussions have become almost non-existent, and many old and excellent native varieties have disappeared with them. These new varieties pursue high yields and speed, but sacrifice taste, threaten the environment, and undermine the ecological balance.
There is also the breeding industry, for example, the loss of pig breeding resources is more obvious. China is one of the earliest countries in the world to raise pigs and has abundant breeding pig resources. However, with the development of the economy and the change of consumer demand, exotic breeds such as Yorkshire pigs, Landrace pigs, and Duroc pigs quickly occupied the market, and local breeding pigs were gradually replaced. In the past, varieties such as Chenghua pig, which was suitable for making back pot meat, and Xiangcheng black pig, which was used for palace meat, were on the verge of extinction.
Chinese farmers do not have seeds of their own, which has a negative impact on agricultural development. First of all, the loss of native germplasm resources leads to agroecological imbalance. Commercial seeds pursue yield and speed, ignoring the impact of taste and ecology, and have a negative impact on soil and water resources.
Second, farmers lose control of their seeds. Most of the commercial seeds are hybrids, and one generation of seeds can no longer be reproduced, and farmers are forced to buy new seeds, increasing the cost of agricultural production. At the same time, multinational seed companies control the seed market through patents, making it impossible for farmers to choose and preserve seeds on their own.
In addition, the loss of indigenous germplasm resources may also lead to food safety problems. The introduction of some genetically modified varieties may pose unforeseen food safety risks, while some exotic varieties have not undergone adequate adaptation studies and may have negative impacts on the environment and biodiversity.
The conservation of indigenous germplasm resources is essential for agricultural development and food security. In order to conserve native germplasm resources, the following measures can be taken:
1.Strengthen technical training for farmers in seed conservation and propagation, improve their understanding and ability to seeds, and encourage farmers to conserve their seed resources.
2.Support research and promotion of indigenous breeds. Increase scientific research and technical support for local varieties, and promote local varieties that adapt to the local environment and market demand.
3.Establish protection mechanisms and laws and regulations for local germplasm resources. Policies and laws should be developed to protect native germplasm resources and limit the introduction of exotic seeds.
4.Strengthen the development of the domestic seed industry, cultivate domestic seed enterprises, and reduce dependence on multinational seed enterprises.
5.Improve farmers' awareness and ability to choose seeds, strengthen farmers' organizational strength, and safeguard their own rights and interests.
In conclusion, the protection of native germplasm resources is of great significance for farmers and agricultural development. By strengthening technical training, scientific research and legal protection, we can effectively curb the loss of native germplasm resources, ensure farmers' right to choose seeds, and promote sustainable agricultural development and food security.