The use of functional traits to identify grasses and fodder shrubs for domestication to suit a changing climate

Author(s)
Mitchell, Meredith L
Whalley, Ralph D
Norman, Hayley C
Publication Date
2013
Abstract
There is uncertainty about future climatic predictions; however there is little doubt amongst experts that the future will be warmer. Climate change and the associated elevation in atmospheric CO₂ level and temperatures will provide novel challenges and potential opportunities for cultivated plant species. Plant breeding and domestication can contributed to improvements in both yield and quality of grasses and fodder shrubs. A range of key functional traits is required to cope with this changing climate. The main challenges that are discussed are new pests and pathogens; changes in the pattern of nutrient supply and forage quality; challenge associated with a shorter growing season; drought tolerance and persistence. With the domestication of any species, consideration needs to be given in terms of duty of care (weediness, anti-nutritional/toxic to animals, regulations) and the on farm adoption of new selections. Two case studies have been included in the paper, one on native grasses and the other on native shrub, old man saltbush.
Citation
Revitalising Grasslands to Sustain our Communities: Proceedings of the 22nd International Grassland Congress, p. 345-351
ISBN
9781742565422
9781742565439
Link
Publisher
NSW Government, Department of Primary Industry
Title
The use of functional traits to identify grasses and fodder shrubs for domestication to suit a changing climate
Type of document
Conference Publication
Entity Type
Publication

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